Hôtel Swexan, a much-awaited new entrant on the Dallas hotel scene, opened its doors at 2575 McKinnon St. in mid-June in the bustling Harwood District.
The charming addition to this lively neighborhood, brimming with vibrant dining and nightlife options, is soon to open a nightclub called Babou’s — a nod to famed artist Salvador Dali’s ocelot.
While this intimate nightclub inspired by the underground spaces in London won’t be serving guests until August 10, Hôtel Swexan still represents a compelling place to enjoy a luxurious stay.
The name “Swexan” cleverly encapsulates the unique Swiss-Texan lineage of the hotel’s founders Ann and Gabriel Barbier-Mueller, the family behind the Harwood Hospitality Group.
“Swiss hospitality meets Texan charm,” the group describes as the hotel’s approach to hosting guests.
“The hotel’s design is reflective of the founders’ travels and passion for art and design, offering guests an immersive European-inspired journey throughout the multi-faceted, transformative spaces,” its website states.
Indeed, with its Old World accents like antique fireplace mantels from the 19th and 20th centuries as well as natural stone and wood elements finely crafted with a modern twist, Hôtel Swexan begs to be explored.
A rooftop pool offers 180-degree views of the Dallas skyline, with live music, a Mediterranean-inspired bar, palm trees, and cabanas present to complete the hip vibe.
Not only do the architecture and furnishings harmoniously blend elements of Europe and Texas, but the mirrored tower was designed by the acclaimed Japanese architect Kengo Kuma. His portfolio includes the Olympic Stadium in Tokyo and the Louis Vuitton Japan Group headquarters in Osaka.
Sharing space inside this 134-room hotel are four restaurants, including the roof’s poolside bar Pomelo, which offers snacks.
Both Pomelo and Léonie, a sunlit breezy dining room offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner beneath an emerald canopy, are exclusive to those staying at the hotel.
Stillwell’s, a steakhouse on the seventh floor, is open to the public and specializes in a unique Akaushi cattle beef bloodline known as HWD Beef.
Similarly, Isabelle’s, a café by day and a martini bar by night, serves the public in the lobby.
When Babou’s and its quieter counterpart, the Library at Babou’s, open in the basement, they will only serve guests on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Located in the Dallas Arts District, another luxury hotel offering guests an array of culinary delights alongside world-class hospitality and service just opened its doors, as reported in The Dallas Express.
JW Marriott Dallas Arts District aims to provide an enriching experience for guests through its thoughtful design and artistic flair.
For instance, Vincent’s Sky Lounge, a sensuous mid-air bar that pays homage to Vincent van Gogh’s Starry Night, can be found on the hotel’s premises.
