Conrad N. Hilton College's teaching hotel evolves into upscale, contemporary property

Conrad N. Hilton College's teaching hotel evolves into upscale, contemporary property

HOUSTON and MCLEAN, Va., April 22, 2010 — Ninety-one years after Conrad Hilton opened his first hotel in Texas, the hotel bearing his name re-opens today following a $12.5 million renovation. Hilton University of Houston, the teaching hotel for the Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant Management, opens its doors as an upscale, contemporary hotel serving Houston's business and leisure travelers.

"The extensive renovation of Hilton University of Houston combines contemporary style and authentic hospitality—two elements that defined our founder and remain hallmarks of our brand today," said Dave Horton, Global Head–Hilton Hotels brand.

Hilton University of Houston features 86 guestrooms and 25,000 square feet of meeting space, including the 6,200-square foot Conrad N. Hilton Ballroom. The just-completed renovation was the first renovation the hotel has undergone since opening in 1975. From the driveway, porte-cochère and courtyard to the lobby, guestrooms, public spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, every detail of the 35-year-old hotel is redesigned to express the vitality, style and hospitality of the Hilton Hotels brand.

Designed by Houston-based Portfolio and Associates, Hilton University of Houston features international elements while staying true to the iconic language of Texas. A dramatic onyx entry wall greets guests upon arrival, and the new lobby provides an intimate gathering space for visitors. The hotel's guest rooms have been expanded and bathroom configurations reoriented. Caramel-toned natural wood, colors of orange and vibrant green along with classic hide accents reflect the warmth of the world-class city of Houston.

"We're thrilled to share Hilton University of Houston's transformation with our guests. With sophisticated changes in place, the hotel meets the upscale expectations of any business or leisure traveler," said Fernando Cuéllar, Hilton University of Houston general manager.

Each guest room is furnished with the Hilton Serenity Collection, generous workspace and flat-screen TV. Other amenities include a 24-hour business center and complimentary wireless high-speed Internet access. Hotel guests can access the nearby University of Houston Campus Recreation and Wellness Center.

The hotel features two restaurants named for sons of the Hilton brand's iconic founder. Eric's, the hotel's full-service restaurant, offers all-day casual dining, serving healthy cuisine with a Mediterranean flair. The hotel's second dining venue, Barron's Restaurant, is run entirely by students from Conrad N. Hilton College. The College also has a student-run coffeehouse, Cougar Grounds, serving gourmet coffee drinks of all kinds.

Hilton University of Houston also features flexible meeting space with capacities ranging from 10 to 600 guests. Meetings have access to state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment and a professional event staff.

The hotel's prime location is just three miles from downtown Houston and 10 minutes from William P. Hobby Airport. Guests have quick access to the world-class restaurants, exciting sports activities and arts events that make Houston a top destination. Visitors to the hotel can also explore the many venues at the University of Houston, including the Blaffer Gallery and performances at the Wortham Theatre on campus.

Hilton University of Houston is part of a $28.8 million Conrad N. Hilton College complex and enables students to gain hands-on experience in guest service and hotel operations. In 1969, a donation from Conrad Hilton at the request of his sons founded the college in the state where his hotel career began.

Guests at Hilton University of Houston are eligible to earn Hilton HHonors points and miles. Reservations can be made through Hilton Reservations Worldwide at 1-800-HILTONS or by visiting www.hilton.com.

Contact:
Debbie Maurer
713.743.5594
dkmaurer@uh.edu