A New Experiential Hostel in Austin Offers Unique Lodging in a Restored Railway Hotel

Native, an experiential hostel in Austin, Texas, is situated within a renovated 1890s railroader hotel and an adjacent midcentury warehouse. This establishment offers a distinctive blend of boutique hotel design, amenities, and service, combined with the social and communal atmosphere typically found in hostels. The project's vision and execution were a collaborative effort involving Icon Design Build, un.box studio (designer of record), Joel Mozersky Design (interior designer), and Helms Workshop (creative branding). The design philosophy behind Native emphasizes a moody, rough-hewn aesthetic, characterized by playful juxtapositions such as charred rafters alongside silky Venetian plaster walls, and warm velour integrated with black steel. Antonio Madrid, a partner at both Native and Icon Design Build, explains that the design pays homage to the building's historical use as a railroader hotel, incorporating tramp art-inspired woodworking fabricated on-site. The intention was to restore the 'faded elegance of a forgotten gem' while simultaneously envisioning Austin's future, creating a space envisioned as an incubator for thinkers, makers, and creatives. Native's lodging options include 12 suites, each featuring 65 custom-built bunks. These bunks are equipped with privacy curtains, individual lamps, and power outlets. Additionally, the hostel offers a communal 'Romper Room' with eight single handcrafted bunks, a California king-sized bed, sofas, three full bathrooms, and 1,000 square feet of shared space, designed for larger groups or 'rock star nights.' Beyond accommodations, Native functions as a multifaceted venue. It houses a cafe and parlor lounge that serves as a co-working space for both guests and local residents during the day. Further enhancing its offerings, Native includes a bar and kitchen that provides craft cocktails and cuisine overseen by executive chef Virginia Pharr. A 3,500-square-foot multipurpose event space is also available. The concept aims to make quality design accessible while maintaining a lively atmosphere appealing to a younger demographic. Other communal features include a 'Loft Room' with privacy-equipped bunk beds, a 'Common Area' exclusively for guests, and a cozy built-in lounge within this common area. Guests also have access to a full, residential-style kitchen. The bar and kitchen serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, catering to both hotel guests and local patrons. The property hosts daily on-site events and activities, such as DJ sets, live music performances, curated film screenings, and city excursions, fostering a vibrant community environment. Antonio Madrid highlights the natural light as a favorite aspect of the property, noting how it transforms the ambiance of each room from day to night. This integration of historic preservation, modern design, and community-focused amenities positions Native as a unique lodging and social hub in downtown Austin. #ExperientialHostel #AustinTravel #HistoricPreservation #BoutiqueDesign #CommunitySpace #AdaptiveReuse #InteriorDesign #HospitalityInnovation #TexasLodging #ExperientialHostel #AustinTravel #HistoricPreservation #BoutiqueDesign #CommunitySpace #AdaptiveReuse #InteriorDesign #HospitalityInnovation #TexasLodging