Nearly three years ago, Matt Hughes and Griffin Phillips broke ground on The Middleton Hotel in Graham, Texas, bringing a much-needed space to a growing community. The Middleton Hotel is a family of boutique hotels, each created on a historic property with modern construction and design elements, located in the western Cross Timbers area of North Texas.
Matt first recognized the need for another hotel after joining the local board in Graham. Confident he was up for the challenge, he called on his longtime friend Griffin to help imagine not just a hotel, but a place that could add real value to the community. Matt and Griffin set out to ensure every detail of the stay was designed with the guest in mind.
That vision aligned perfectly with the mission of the Graham Industrial Association (GIA), the city’s leading advocate for economic development since 1956. The GIA purchased two properties: an abandoned 19th-century building and a vacant lot nearby. As Matt and Griffin bounced ideas back and forth, their vision for the hotel began to take shape. They didn’t just want a place for travelers to stay—they envisioned a welcoming space where neighbors could gather, where art and culture could flourish, and where visitors would feel right at home.
The plan took off thanks to XCaliber Container, a locally founded company. Sixteen double-stacked shipping containers were transformed into modern guest rooms, creating a distinctive design that sets The Middleton Hotel apart. The open lot was reimagined with a courtyard featuring a fountain and coffee shop, giving guests and locals alike a place to relax. Meanwhile, the historic building was reborn as a tapas and cocktail restaurant, offering inventive bites and memorable drinks in a lively setting.
One of the hotel’s defining features is its deep connection to the arts. From the start, Matt and Griffin wanted each space to feel alive with creativity. Every room, along with the lounge, showcases the work of a different artist hand-selected by the founders. “Early on in our process, we reached out to some artists that we resonated with, but Shea Slemmer was the first one to really see our vision,” Matt recalls. “Shea travels all around the world, and actually came by before we even broke ground. She helped us gain confidence before we actually opened. Her art is featured in the restaurant and the hotel.” You can see more of Shea’s work on Instagram @sheaslemmer.
Shea’s involvement opened the door for more collaborations. Today, The Middleton Hotel features the work of seventeen artists. Some began with modest followings but have expanded their reach over time, remaining tied to the community through the hotel. “We hand-pick the artists that we really like and that we feel follow our vision,” Matt explains. Make sure to check out all the featured artists listed on their website at hotelmiddleton.com.
For travelers seeking more than just a place to stay, The Middleton Hotel delivers an authentic local experience. In the summer, guests can enjoy Graham’s concert series, which brings live music to the heart of town. Combined with a vibrant dining scene and the creative energy infused throughout, The Middleton Hotel emerges as both a cultural hub and a welcoming retreat.
In addition to The Middleton Hotel, Matt and Griffin are also involved with the Jazz Chapel. Originally built in 1883 as the Cotten-Bratton building, this beautifully restored landmark embodies the essence of timeless style with a touch of Texas charm.
Be sure to check out The Middleton Hotel at www.hotelmiddleton.com or follow them on Instagram at @hotelmiddleton and @jazz.chapel.
Looking for other things to see and do in Graham, TX? Check out some of these local favorites:
- Stop into Pratt’s Books – For more than 40 years, Pratt’s Books has specialized in out-of-print, scarce, eclectic, and occasionally new books.
- Grab a bottle of wine at Graham Wines - North Texas’ premier shop for top-rated wine, spirits, and craft beer. Expertly curated. Locally owned.
- Visit the largest town square in Texas! See the Courthouse Archway and visit the Young County Veterans Memorial Plaza.
- See a movie at the Graham Drive-In – Built in 1948, the Graham Drive-In Theatre is the oldest known operating drive-in movie theater in Texas.