The Highland Dallas has unveiled its recent multi-million dollar renovation. The project is inspired by the hotel’s iconic past—it’s the original home of Dallas’ Hilton Inn, known in the 1960s for Trader Vic’s “tiki room” and for lively pianists at the penthouse hot spot Harper’s Corner—as well as its premier location at the intersection of the Highland Park and Lakewood neighborhoods. Design team Flick Mars drew from these two communities to bring indigenous elements into the overall design, especially within the guestrooms and event space.
In the guestrooms, the bold neutrals of the printed carpet are an organic representation of the typography of oil and gas, two prominent commodities in Dallas, and subtly contrast with the crisp and tailored bedside table and desk. The leather-inspired custom headboard elegantly speaks to the region by evoking the feel of a distressed leather saddle.
Artwork is a significant part of the project with thought-provoking pieces implemented throughout the hotel. In the guestrooms a unique piece of functional artwork is displayed on each window’s roller shade. The shade depicts a black and white image combining human nature and beauty, as well as referencing The Highland’s southern roots. Interactive artwork, like the roller shade, encourages guests to explore the room during their stays.
Additionally, the hotel’s 6,470 square-foot Opus Grand Ballroom has been reimagined with new design pieces and touches of unexpected glamour. The sophisticated renewed event space mixes textures and heavy use of patterns that speak to its Texas locale, while reusing strong existing elements to enhance the natural design. A major focal point of the redesign is a custom-designed carpet. The statement piece features a large pattern that is non-repetitive.
On the walls, a collection of tailor-made, decorative sconces mimicking pieces of jewelry surround the room with bursts of metallic to create a welcoming ambiance. Featuring a combination of soft and sophisticated pieces, the enhanced ballroom is perfect for corporate and social events up to 500 guests with catering by James Beard-Nominated Chef John Tesar at the acclaimed restaurant, Knife.
