Introduction to Latuli
When Houston rancher and restaurateur Allison Knight first discovered interior designer Alfredo Paredes, she was looking to renovate a few "cabinlike structures" on her family’s Colorado ranch. Paredes, a 33-year veteran of Ralph Lauren, executed the project to perfection. Now, he has put his stamp on Houston with Latuli, a cozy new restaurant that offers a unique blend of Gulf Coast and Texas-game-heavy cuisine.
The Design Inspiration
Latuli’s sophisticated-casual aesthetic is reminiscent of other Paredes-designed projects, such as the Polo Club in NYC and Ralph’s in Paris. Knight and her business partner, chef Bryan Caswell, chose Hedwig Village as the ideal location for their restaurant, which offers a little something for everyone, from art enthusiasts to kids. The interior color palette of blue, ivory, and cognac lends itself to a myriad of styles, all of which can lean either coastal or ranch, depending on the space.
A Home Away from Home
The restaurant’s design is intended to feel like an extension of someone’s home, with eclectic art collections and taxidermy throughout the many spaces. Most of the art pieces were sourced from Knight’s Memorial area home, including original watercolors by John P. Cowan and works by Kate Boxer, Fritz Scholder, and Paul Meyer. The larger-than-life, textural portrait of a Native American man by Austin-based artist Paul Meyer is a standout piece that is sure to win over Instagram fans.
Unique Dining Spaces
Latuli is comprised of five separate, but cohesive dining spaces, including a covered outdoor patio, a main dining room, an intimate secondary dining room, and a bar/lounge. The private lounge and event space on the second floor offers a unique atmosphere for special occasions. Knight and Paredes took advantage of Houston’s proximity to Round Top to source antique vases, pots, and artworks found throughout the restaurant.
Local Touches
The designs by Paredes were all carried out by local makers and artisans, including Doro’s Unique Flooring, QTS, and Martin Irazoqui of Picchios. The dining chairs, designed by Paredes, were crafted in Houston, along with the tables, by Agile Interiors. The intricate textile-clad backs of the dining chairs have been a fan favorite, featuring a series of horizontal stripes incorporating geometric and tribal motifs in a rich palette of blues and grays.
A Comfortable Space for Everyone
The intention for Latuli was to create a place that serves the local community, with a comfortable space for everyone. The main dining room has a somewhat sceney vibe, while the intimate dining room offers a quiet, relaxed atmosphere. The private dining space has proven to be a surprise hit, with its moody aesthetic and textured finish, which is actually a waxed canvas fabric from Lord Fabrik.
Outdoor Oasis
The thoughtfully covered patio plays multiple roles, from sharing a meal to having wine by the outdoor fireplace, or allowing kids to romp during pre-and-post-dinner lulls in the enclosed green space. The patio is more international in its design, with pendant lights in a plethora of shapes and sizes, all in cohesive shades of ivory. The pendants are made in Mexico but draw inspiration from Mediterranean designs, specifically the lattice part, which is Moroccan-inspired.
Conclusion
Latuli is a unique and welcoming restaurant that offers a little something for everyone. With its sophisticated-casual aesthetic, eclectic art collections, and comfortable dining spaces, it’s the perfect spot for families, friends, and couples to enjoy a meal together. Whether you’re looking for a quiet, relaxed atmosphere or a more lively vibe, Latuli has something for everyone. As the cooler months approach, guests can appreciate the indoor and outdoor fireplaces, making Latuli a must-visit destination in Houston.
