SHORTLY BEFORE THE pandemic hit, crippling the travel industry and negating the mere idea of in-person galas, weddings or conferences, the Four Seasons Hotel Houston embarked on a lengthy and expensive reno process for its ballroom, guest rooms and suites.

Fast forward to a world in which Houstonians are getting vaccinated at an increasingly encouraging rate, and the luxury property is ready to unveil its new look. Talk about timing!

Celebrated architect and designer Lauren Rottet utilized a warmly contemporary color palette in the new guest rooms and suites; hues of blue, brass and wood come together to create a soothing, yet distinctly Texan, aesthetic. The State, Ambassador and Presidential suites and Penthouse are all newly outfitted with custom furnishings, contemporary art, sculptural light fixtures — and an excellent wet bar situation.

The Presidential Suite and Penthouse now boast open-floorplan-style layouts, designed to recall an urbane apartment rather than a hotel room. They even have in-suite gym areas complete with weights, a Peloton and the new interactive fitness program, Mirror.

In January, the hotel debuted its expanded grand ballroom and revamped meeting spaces, designed by Meyer Davis, who was also responsible for the living-room-style reno of the lobby a few years back. Davis increased the gathering space by 150 percent, and used walnut wood paneling, accents of brass and oil-rubbed bronze, and custom light fixtures throughout.

In addition to the refreshed design, the Four Seasons has rolled out new experiences for guests, including a "bourbon steward" experience, with an in-room tasting and hand-crafted cocktails. Similarly, the Art of Charcuterie package guides guests through the process of creating the perfect charcuterie board, complete with wine pairings. And the Home Suite Home experience, available only in the Presidential Suite or Penthouse, brings a workout class, spa treatments, bourbon tasting and catered breakfast straight to guests, who never have to leave the suite, if they don't want to! For every Home Suite Home package booked, a $50 donation will be made to Camp H-Town, the Four Seasons' sleepaway camp for pediatric cancer patients.