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Heralded as America’s first modern hotel, The Statler Dallas, Curio Collection by Hilton first opened in January 1956. Together with their next-door neighbour, the Dallas Public Library, these two buildings made up the “best block of 1950’s architecture in the city”, according to the American Institute of Architects.

Threatened with demolition by the city after years of non-operation, Preservation Dallas stepped in and added the Statler to its list of Most Endangered Structures due to its fabulous example of American Mid-Century modern design. The Statler reopened in 2017 with 159 hotel rooms on the lower levels, and 219 luxury apartments from levels 8 to 18.

Fun fact: Tony Bennett was on hand for the grand re-opening, performing his song, It Amazes Me, just as he did at the Statler’s original 1956 opening.

[The not-officially-titled “Forgotten Lubin”]

Artist Jack Lubin’s “The Forgotten Lubin”, a stunning artwork formerly displayed in the Statler’s Empire Room, was covered up during the hotel’s 1988 purchase, rediscovered in 2013, professionally restored then transferred to the lobby by the piano!

Back in its heyday, the Statler’s cantilever architectural style was complimented by a decorative glass and porcelain exterior curtain wall in classic Midcentury modern teals. Amongst other progressive features, The Statler was the first building to feature elevator music as well as separate elevator banks for service and guests.

The Statler was also the first hotel to include in-room TVs (custom 21” Westinghouse models).

One of my favourite features of the hotel is on the second floor. The current row of offices once served as handy airline check-in counters, later used as car rental check-ins. I closed my eyes to imagine what that must have looked like, with American, Eastern, Pan-Am, TWA, and other airlines of the era ready to check in hotel guests for their flights!

Known at the time for being the largest convention hotel in the southwestern US, the hotel’s supper club included performances from A-listers Liberace, The Jackson 5, Cher, Ike and Tina Turner, Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, Bob Hope, and Tony Bennett.

A member of the Historic Hotels of America, the Statler offers guests a luxury stay in the heart of the city. While notable guests to the hotel included Audrey Hepburn and Tina Turner, the Statler’s most famous visitor, a llama, arrived by private jet in the late 60’s.

[A modern sculpture of Llinda Llee Llama sits high atop the city at Waterproof, formerly the hotel’s helipad]

At the request of Stanley Marcus, president and chairman of Neiman Marcus, Llinda Llee Llama was invited to attend the luxury retailer’s South American Fortnight—an annual celebration of international culture, cuisine, and fashion.

The staff reportedly enjoyed Llinda’s company so much that they requested an extension of her stay for a full two weeks. Today, a life-sized polished chrome statue of Llinda can be enjoyed on the hotel’s rooftop boasting stunning Dallas skyline views (my room also has a mini version created by the same designer, Brad Oldham).

As I pull up in an Uber, a pair of classic cars (1946 Lincoln, 1957 Chevy Bel Air) are parked at the entrance to set the tone for the rest of this decidedly retro hotel. A colourful Picassoesque mural (The Lost Lubin) graces the walls of the lobby set against marble floors and a grand piano that holds court in the corner.

Cozy seating and low tables are scattered around the room, with restaurant Overeasy at the opposite end. Scout’s multi-coloured glass wall is also original, as are the glass and wood railings on the staircases.

Rooms

I’m in a suite with floor-to-ceiling windows that allow a lot of natural light to pour into the room. Inside the entry is a kitchenette and curvy couch with a wall-mounted flatscreen TV, perfect for relaxing after a busy day exploring the city. A mid-century wooden console completes the look.

Leading into the bathroom with a freestanding tub and walk-in shower, there’s dual sinks and Guild + Pepper bathroom amenities. The white marble countertop is spacious, with a tiny ledge for small bath essentials as well.

The closet in the bedroom has an ironing board and iron, steamer, electronic safe and extra bedding. The glass-topped, metal-rimmed circular desk with sleek silver table lamp is well situated for a light meal or getting some work done.

Another wall-mounted flatscreen TV is positioned opposite the king bed, fitted with comfortable bedding and pillows. The space is well laid out for a few days to call The Statler a sweet home away from home.

I was amazed at how quiet the room was, even though the hotel was hosting a conference the week of my visit. Each time I returned to my room, it was a heavenly retreat.

Dining

Overeasy serves a hearty breakfast and lunch, with a coffee bar and take-away items up front.

Next to Overeasy is Scout, the Statler’s restaurant and entertainment venue, complete with four bowling lanes, billiards, sports streaming on big-screen TVs and more.

[Overeasy’s scrumptious biscuits!]

Bourbon and Banter Speakeasy is an evening hideaway that once housed the Statler Hilton’s barber shop. Entrance is via a secret password in a lone phone booth at the entrance.

It was via this very barber shop where Tina Turner escaped from abusive husband Ike while he was asleep in the hotel.

Waterproof, a chic indoor/outdoor venue on the 19th floor, contains a small pool within its urban oasis for cocktails and small bites after 4 pm, with gorgeous city views. This space formerly served as a heliport!

Fitness

On the third floor is a modern fitness room with TVs, while down the hall and up a set of stairs is the hotel’s outdoor pool and lounge area.

[Tony Tassett’s Eye]

Area Attractions

The Statler Dallas is close to an abundance of nightlife, dining, and cafés as well as The Dallas Museum of Art, Sixth Floor Museum at Dealy Plaza, the Eye, Thanksgiving Square, and the Majestic Theater.

The Statler Dallas, Curio Collection by Hilton is located at 1914 Commerce Street in Dallas.

I was graciously hosted by The Statler Dallas, Curio Collection by Hilton for the purpose of this feature. Opinions, as always, remain my own. Non-watermarked images courtesy of The Statler Dallas, Curio Collection by Hilton.