South Congress Hotel confirmed to Chron on Tuesday that the 83-room boutique hotel at 1603 S Congress Ave. will temporarily close for roughly a year this Spring to allow for renovations.
“We can confirm that South Congress Hotel will undergo a comprehensive renovation of the property beginning in May of 2026, expected to conclude in early 2027,” General Manager Daryl Gomersall told Chron in a statement. “In order to eliminate any disruption or impact to the guest experience, the hotel is expected to temporarily suspend operations on May 31, 2026.”
Gomersall noted that the Mañana coffee shop will remain open throughout the redesign. Renovations will be hotel-wide, including a redesign of all guestrooms, enhancements and updates to public spaces including the lobby and rooftop, as well as a refresh of all food and beverage outlets.
South Congress Hotel was previously owned and operated by New Waterloo, according to Ana Stapleton, an artist hired for art installations on the property. Stapleton said when the hotel opened in 2015, owners wanted to “create a space that honored the character of the neighborhood and of the historic avenue itself: artisanal, rustic, and timeless, with an offbeat and approachable vibe.”
Hyatt allegedly informed staff that all employee contracts will be terminated between May 31 and June 12, according to a letter reportedly issued by Hyatt and published in the r/Austin Subreddit.
“When the hotel reopens, you will be eligible to apply for any open positions,” the letter reads. “Please know that we understand how serious it is to take actions like we are today; we do not take this lightly.”
An employee of South Congress Hotel confirmed to Chron Tuesday morning that the hotel would close for renovations at the end of May, but refused to comment on whether hotel staff were anticipating terminations.
Hyatt has neither confirmed nor denied to Chron whether it issued the letter or whether terminations are imminent.
South Congress Hotel opened just over a decade ago, “designed to be a hub of activity for the community,” according to the hotel website. In addition to rooms and suites, the hotel currently has three restaurants, a rooftop pool, coffee and bake shop, lobby bar, photo booth, 24-hour fitness center and two retail shops.
Guests with questions regarding an upcoming stay have been directed to call 888-848-9496 in the U.S. and 1-402-952-1131 outside of the U.S.