A new restaurant concept will soon debut at The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa to replace upscale eatery Olivette, which closed in mid-May. Ā Construction began July 3, according to a press release. The roughly $3 million renovation project spans about 8,000 square feet and will include the new concept, called Tribute at The Houstonian; the already-existing The Bar at The Houstonian; the existing Hearth Room, which is a pre-function area; and a new wine room to store over 3,500 bottles.Ā Ā The Bar is expected to reopen in August, while Tribute and Hearth Room are expected to open in October. Houston-based Forney Construction is the general contractor. The firm filed a $2.86 million commercial building permit for Olivette's former space in early June.Ā Ā San Francisco-based Gensler's Houston office is redesigning the space to 'reflect the deep and lasting ambiance of The Houstonian's aesthetic beauty,' per the release. The new layout of the culinary offerings will include a lounge area to connect The Bar to Tribute. This area will include new lighting and furnitures, onyx finishes and emerald tones.Ā Ā The 4,100-square-foot Tribute will include large windows, wooden furniture, exposed beams, antique gold finishes and branch-like light fixtures inspired by the surrounding oak trees. Ā 'Tribute is a name that reflects the past, present and future of The Houstonian brand in a timeless way and allows us to pay homage to our great city, our authentic and regional cuisine, and the enduring traditions of our guests,ā Steve Fronterhouse, The Houstonian's general manager, said in the release. The name is also meant to invoke the strength of Houston and Texas. Ā For the full article click here.Ā Ā Ā Ā