hospitality

perfecting the art of radical hospitality

The Marchbanks Company is a proven leader in the experiential hospitality space, developing some of the world’s most buzzed-about boutique properties and go-to destinations in Texas.

unrepeatable properties
by design

Our properties capture the essence of a special place – its people, its character, its stories, its heartbeat – and amplify these qualities into experiences that simply can’t be found anywhere else.

the bunkhouse story

How the Marchbanks company Shaped One of the Hospitality industry's Most Influential Brands

Founded in 2006 by Liz Lambert, Greg Marchbanks, and Bill Gernstein, Bunkhouse Management emerged to put its own stamp on boutique hospitality through small-scale, experiential properties with deep contextual roots. The company built its reputation on design excellence, thoughtful experience curation, and distinctive brand development—shaping properties like Hotel San José, Hotel Saint Cecilia, Austin Motel, Hotel San Cristobal, Hotel Magdalena, and Hotel Saint Augustine into sought-out destinations.Standard Hotels acquired majority control in 2015, recognizing Bunkhouse's unique approach to place-making. Hyatt later acquired both companies in 2024. Today, The Marchbanks Company continues to partner with Bunkhouse, as the developer and asset manager of select Bunkhouse-managed properties—bringing together our strategic guidance with their focus on experiential hospitality.

tHE FOUNDATION FOR CULTURAL HOSPITALITY

A New Vision for
Hotel San José

Before Bunkhouse became synonymous with culturally driven hospitality, it was a bold idea backed by thoughtful investment, creative discipline, and long-term vision. The Marchbanks Company played a critical role in transforming a singular South Congress property into a bonafide culture movement — one that redefined what boutique hotels could be, and ultimately reshaping the hospitality landscape from Austin to Marfa and beyond.

SEEDING A NEW STANDARD

Bunkhouse Takes Shape

Following the wildly successful trajectory of Hotel San José, The Marchbanks Company played a foundational role in the formation of Bunkhouse Hotels — supporting the brand’s growth model, operational strategy, and creative direction as it expanded beyond South Austin.

A low view across pool chairs in the evening by a neon lit pool at an elegant hotel venture.
SCALING WITH STRATEGY AND SOUL

Expansion with Intention

The Marchbanks Company continued to support the group’s local and regional expansion, applying strategic development insight from Hotel Saint Cecilia and Austin Motel in South Austin to El Cósmico in Marfa, among others, reinforcing the firm’s commitment to locally inspired, authentic placemaking and sizable, sustainable returns.

A view of an estate with a fountain in from among a lush garden.
BUILDING VALUE THROUGH VISION

Positioned for Acquisition

With strong fundamentals and undeniable cultural cachet, the Bunkhouse brand drew national attention in the industry, making the burgeoning Austin-based hotel group a compelling acquisition target. The Marchbanks Company’s expertise in asset positioning and brand clarity played a key role in setting the stage for institutional growth.

A library with elegant green couches and a chair make up a home library in an estate.
PROVING THE POWER OF PLACEMAKING

Hospitality at Scale

Standard International’s acquisition of a majority stake in Bunkhouse signaled a shift in the industry — from commoditized hotels to experience-led destinations. The Marchbanks Company’s early vision and development leadership were essential in proving the long-term value of culturally anchored boutique hotel concepts.

An outside dining area allows multiple guests to indulge in this space on an elegant estate.
gravitational pull

concepts with cachet

Transforming Spaces: Our Approach to Exceptional Hospitality Experiences

Our Commitment to Quality and Guest Satisfaction in Hospitality

Every detail is crafted to ensure an unforgettable experience for every visitor.

Innovative Strategies for Enhancing Guest Engagement and Loyalty

Our innovative strategies foster deeper connections with guests, enhancing loyalty and satisfaction.

great places start
with the right partners

Let’s start the conversation — about your vision, your assets, and what we can create together.

Let's start the conversation.

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