Houston, Texas, October 21, 2025
News Summary
The iconic Hotel Derek in Houston has closed after two decades of operation and is set to be transformed into The Greenleigh. This rebranding includes extensive renovations to the existing structure, aiming for an upscale experience with 299 rooms. The Greenleigh is scheduled to open in spring 2026, coinciding with Houston’s hosting of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Rockbridge Holdings and Dallas-based Makeready are overseeing the transformation, which will enhance the hotel’s offerings in the local hospitality market.
Houston, Texas – The former Hotel Derek, a pop culture icon known for its appearance in Drake’s song “Company,” has officially closed its doors as part of a major transformation. The hotel, located at 2525 W. Loop S., ceased operations in June 2024 after more than 20 years of service and is being rebranded and renovated into The Greenleigh, which will feature 299 rooms designed to provide an upscale experience.
The property is owned by Rockbridge Holdings, based in Columbus, Ohio, which is leading this significant overhaul. Dallas-based Makeready has been selected to manage The Greenleigh. The hotel is set to open its doors in spring 2026, aligning with Houston’s hosting of seven matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Renovation work commenced in January 2025 and is projected to conclude in July 2025, encompassing substantial changes throughout the existing 14-story structure. The upgrades will touch approximately 162,766 square feet of public and guest areas, marking what Makeready describes as a “complete transformation” aimed at creating an “urban sanctuary” that resonates with the natural rhythm of Houston.
Initial public filings estimated the renovation costs at around $960,000; however, the final expenses remain undisclosed. A key feature of the new hotel will be its signature restaurant, dLeña, for which plans have already been submitted to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.
The Greenleigh is strategically located across from the Galleria and close to the River Oaks District, providing easy access to some of Houston’s prime shopping and dining destinations. According to data from the Harris County Appraisal District (HCAD), the property’s total footprint is approximately 264,672 square feet.
As part of the preparation for opening, Makeready is currently on the lookout for a managing director to lead The Greenleigh’s operations. The transition from Hotel Derek to The Greenleigh signifies a substantial shift in Houston’s hospitality scene, with expectations that the revamped property will attract both business travelers and tourists alike, especially during the FIFA World Cup events.
The former Hotel Derek has long been recognized for its distinctive character and has held a prominent place in Houston’s hotel landscape. The initiative to transform it into The Greenleigh represents an effort to revitalize and enhance the offerings within the city’s competitive hotel market.
Key Features of The Greenleigh Hotel
- Rooms: 299-key upscale hotel
- Location: 2525 W. Loop S., across from the Galleria
- Owner: Rockbridge Holdings, Columbus, Ohio
- Management: Makeready, Dallas
- Opening Date: Spring 2026
- Renovation Start: January 2025
- Renovation Completion: July 2025
- Renovation Costs: Approximately $960,000 (final costs undisclosed)
- Total Building Footprint: 264,672 square feet
- Signature Restaurant: dLeña
- Public Space Renovation: Approximately 162,766 square feet
FAQ section
What is the new name of the hotel formerly known as Hotel Derek?
The hotel is being rebranded and transformed into The Greenleigh.
When did the former Hotel Derek close?
The former Hotel Derek closed in June 2024 after over 20 years in business.
Who owns the property and is overseeing the project?
The property is owned by Rockbridge Holdings from Columbus, Ohio, and they are spearheading the project.
What management company will oversee The Greenleigh?
Dallas-based Makeready has been selected to manage The Greenleigh.
When is The Greenleigh expected to open?
The Greenleigh is expected to open in spring 2026.
What event will coincide with the opening of The Greenleigh?
The opening of The Greenleigh is expected to coincide with Houston’s hosting of seven matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
When did renovations for The Greenleigh begin and what is their projected completion date?
Renovations began in January 2025 and are projected to be completed by July 2025.
How much are the initial estimated renovation costs?
Initial public filings estimated renovation costs at around $960,000, but the final costs have not been disclosed.
What significant changes are planned for The Greenleigh?
The renovation will involve extensive changes to the existing 14-story structure, including updates to both public and guest room spaces, totaling approximately 162,766 square feet.
What is the name of the signature restaurant in The Greenleigh?
The Greenleigh’s signature restaurant has been named dLeña.
Where is The Greenleigh located?
The Greenleigh is strategically located across from the Galleria, near the River Oaks District.
What is the total footprint of the building?
The building’s total footprint is 264,672 square feet, as per Harris County Appraisal District (HCAD).
Is Makeready looking for any staff for The Greenleigh?
Makeready is currently searching for a managing director for The Greenleigh hotel.
What was Hotel Derek known for?
The former Hotel Derek was recognized for its uniqueness and had become a staple in Houston’s hotel industry.
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Additional Resources
- KHOU: Hotel Derek Replacement
- Wikipedia: Houston
- Fox 26: Hotel Derek to Become Greenleigh
- Google Search: Houston hotel renovation
- Chron: Hotel Derek News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Texas
- KHOU: Hotel Derek Replacement in Houston
- Google Scholar: Houston hotels
- Realty News Report: Groundbreaking for New Downtown Hotel
- Google News: Houston hotel transformation
- CultureMap: Prominent Houston Hotel Updates
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
