Clayton Korte

The Albert Hotel celebrates both the legacy of noted Fredericksburg architect, historic preservationist, and man-about-town Albert Keidel and everything that makes the Texas Hill Country special. The Keidel legacy continues with the development of the family’s homestead into a boutique hotel operated by New Waterloo that will further contribute to the social, cultural, and economic prosperity of the area. The mixed-use, entertainment and hospitality property is located in the heart of Fredericksburg’s three “Golden Blocks” at the center of the historic shopping and entertainment district.

The project includes the renovation of the Keidel Family Home, built in 1860; the Brockmann-Kiehne House, built in 1870; Keidel Pharmacy, built in 1906; and White Elephant Saloon, built in 1888. New construction, thoughtfully designed to coexist with the historic buildings, includes retail, four distinct food and beverage concepts, and a hotel with its own restaurant and spa. Shaded lawns and courtyards connect buildings and can double as event spaces while a sunken limestone pool and lounge offers hotel guests respite from the Texas heat.

The material palette of the new building draws from the surrounding Hill Country. Traditional wood siding is paired with a custom raked stucco finish, designed to capture and reflect the changing sunlight throughout the day. An undulating façade paired with generous roof overhangs protects interior spaces and walkways from the intense summer sun. The interiors reflect the softer side of Albert Keidel’s global sensibilities. Material-driven, layered, and eclectic, the design is warm yet unfussy, with unexpected discoveries throughout.