History | Boutique Hotel | Magnolia Houston

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A Modern Classic

Born of The Jazz Age

In the 1920s, amidst an era of prosperity and oil riches, Ross Sterling built a towering 22-story structure in Houston to house his newspaper and radio station. Completed in 1926, it became the city's tallest building under the presidency of former Governor William P. Hobby. Shell Oil took over in 1932, marking the building's transformation into its regional headquarters. Today, visitors can explore its rich history through architectural elements like classical pilasters and lion's head gargoyles. Inside, original features like a woodblock printing press and a grand staircase blend seamlessly with modern comforts, embodying the timeless allure of the Magnolia brand.

The Rise and Transformation

The 1920s were roaring and oil was booming when Humble Oil founder Ross Sterling erected a 22-story building to house the offices of his newspaper, the Houston Post-Dispatch, and the KRPC radio station. The year was 1926, former Governor William P. Hobby had been named the paper’s president, and Post-Dispatch skyscraper was the tallest in Houston. By 1932, Shell Oil had replaced the paper with its regional headquarters and remained there for most of the mid-century.

Timeless Grandeur

Guests will find evidence of the building’s celebrated history at every turn. Following the typical pattern of skyscrapers of its time, the building is constructed of a four-story base, 14-story shaft, and a crown of four stories. A colonnade of paired classical pilasters frames the 3rd and 4th-floor windows, while the very top features lion’s head gargoyles and a shell and cherub frieze—all features of the Beaux Arts style that defined the era.

Heritage Reimagined

Inside, a refurbished original woofing block printing press adorns the lobby, while a circular grand stairway climbs two stories to the lightfilled, third-floor meeting complex overlooking downtown Houston. The Presidential “Ross Sterling” Suite still maintains the original blackand-white checkered marble floor from its days as the bosses’ residence. At every turn guests will discover historic detail and modern design built for pure comfort and a heartfelt homecoming that is distinctly Magnolia.

Eats & Drinks at The Dispatch

The buildings second floor restaurant, The Dispatch is named for the newspaper that originally inhabited its namesake Post-Disbatch building features a menu with some classic 1920's cocktails and bites. After the building underwent a major renovation, the second floor space was transformed into a dining and entertainment destination that showcases the historic architectural details of the space. The restaurant features an open layout with multiple food and drink options offering a diverse range of American cuisine. The space also includes a selection of local Houston craft beers and in house curated flavored spirits.

Revived Legacy

The Magnolia Hotel Houston was added to the National Register of Historic Places, which is an official list of properties that are deemed worthy of preservation due to their historical, cultural, or architectural significance, shortly after it opened as a hotel in 2003. This recognition helps to ensure the building's preservation and protection for future generations to appreciate and enjoy. Today, this iconic Houston landmark is reborn as the 314-room Magnolia Houston, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel—a modern classic refitted with 21st-century comforts and historic detail reminiscent of the building’s origins in the prosperity of the Jazz Age. It is a popular destination for both locals and visitors to Houston, and its unique blend of history, culture, and cuisine make it a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the city.