Designed to blend into its Austin surroundings, the inspiration behind this project was to create a sense of place, achieved by Michael Hsu Office of Architecture and Studio MAI. The interiors draw upon a combination of styles, with judges crowning it the best project to speak to context and discretion. They said: “The trueness of the project is commendable, complete with well curated furnishings and application of materiality. The hotel radiates the South Congress neighbourhood energy.”

South Congress Hotel’s consistent design narrative from start to finish “speaks to how context and location are authentically reflected in the guest experience.” While being low-scaled and discreet, the thoughtfulness in planning and details “radiates the energy of the neighbourhood.”