The Frances Modern Inn East Austin Hotel
East Austin
In East Austin opposites stand side by side–shabby next to chic, craftsman by contemporary, home next to business Sparkling new store windows reflect the weathered brick and razor wire just across the street. Angular modern homes cast shadows on pastel bungalows while those with dinner reservations vie for parking with residents. As the last bits of local color on South Congress fade to fashionable neutrals, Austinites turn to East Austin for fine art, creative cuisine, and a sense of Austin history. Recently, I was delighted to be in the neighborhood to attend the rebranding reveal of the former Cat Noir hotel, a boutique hotel which is now The Frances Modern Inn East Austin hotel at 1123 East 11th.
The Frances Modern Inn Boutique Hotel
The unimposing entrance of The Frances blends with the busy street offering no clue of the delights within. This boutique hotel interior is as eclectic as the street outside but with all design elements expertly arranged in harmony. A mix of vintage and new approximates the storied character of spaces that have evolved over time. Fine art hangs with vintage needlepoint, and new furnishings mix with estate sale fines. Modern built-in beds saved from the previous hotel were cozied-up with new upholstered panels and lighting. Outdoors, common areas encourage guests to mingle or check out the Austin skyline.
The Frances has an inclusive and creative attitude. The decor is richly textured but not overdone, fine but not too precious. Deep wall colors and patterned wall paper make each room a jewel-toned retreat, and sparkling white bathrooms shine like mini-spas. Even so, the Frances doesn’t take its elegance too seriously. Instead, whimsy prevails with animal-shaped door knockers, bright bird-print wallpapers, vintage floral embroidery, and Frido Kahlo’s face repeated on a quilt. Austin’s creative spirit is alive and well at The Frances.
Austin Artists at The Frances
A special effort was made to showcase Austin artists. I’m proud to have one of my paintings hanging in room 11! Find a list (in progress) of the art collection at the The Frances Modern Inn’s new website.
Kim Lewis Designs
From the crystal light fixtures overhead to the vintage rugs underfoot, every detail was thoughtfully collected and expertly placed by the talented hands of the team from Kim Lewis Designs. In addition to being talented designers, they are lovely and supportive people. The owners of the Frances asked the Lewis team to create a space filled with color and art and conducive to creative conversations. They absolutely delivered.
An ArtEssential Hotel
For a vacation or a special stay-cation, the Frances Modern Inn East Austin hotel is a wonderful choice. As for ArtEssential design, the Frances has all of the characteristics I find most appealing executed in a particularly artful way. Take a look at my list by clicking here.
