Peregrine Hospitality has opened The Tess in Atlanta’s tony Buckhead neighborhood. The hotel joins Marriott International’s Autograph Collection, which consists of more than 300 independent hotels across the world. It will also be part of Peregrine Hospitality’s Boutique & Lifestyle Collection.
The 201-room hotel, which formerly operated as the Thompson Atlanta-Buckhead under Hyatt Hotels, gets its namesake from the created persona of Tess and has been reimagined to deliver the the art of Southern hospitality with a modern twist, think nights in Paris salons to mornings in Kyoto gardens before returning home to Atlanta. As the press release notes, “She is equal parts ethereal and approachable, always at the center of the most interesting conversation.
The hotel includes the rooftop restaurant Tesserae and one of Atlanta’s only rooftop pools.
“We want to create a home away from home for our guests. With The Tess, we set out to create a place that feels like Atlanta’s living room: welcoming, inspiring, and alive with cultural conversation,” said Greg Kennealey, CEO of Peregrine Hospitality. “Tess is our true muse, and she is the thread that ties the full experience together from programming to little touches that will make each stay special.”
Earlier this year, in January, KSL Resorts rebranded as Peregrine Hospitality.
As a nod to its namesake, the hotel will feature The Tess Collection as a defining, unique mark. Each Autograph Collection hotel has its own distinctive signature moment; here, The Tess Collection sets the tone with a library of Tess’ favorite books and vinyl— from works by Octavia Butler to records from The Rolling Stones—alongside staff picks and local partners, all available to browse or purchase. The space is outfitted with headphones for guests to listen in while exploring the collection, and it will also double as a podcast recording studio that is available for guests and locals to book.
Guestrooms and suites extend the narrative, including a Presidential Suite with expansive living areas, city views and a spa-like bathroom with a deep soaking tub. The hotel’s fitness center features Peloton bikes and a rowing machine. Programming continues the theme of connection, with literary evenings in the foyer, a musical vibe by the pool and recommendations from Tess herself—an in-room guide to books, podcasts, songs and neighborhood finds.
The Tess also features the “Experience Curator,” the hotel’s take on the traditional concierge service. The team of curators offers hyperpersonalized service, anticipating needs and making connections “that feel effortless and authentic.”
The hotel’s signature restaurant Tesserae pairs American cuisine and craft cocktails with panoramic city views. The restaurant will introduce a new menu this month, with signature dishes including Cabernet Sauvignon Braised Short Rib, Half Chicken Cacciatore and Butternut Squash & Sage Risotto. The ground floor Lobby Bar showcases marble, leather, rich wood and brass accents. Signature cocktails include the crisp and refreshing Sunset in Georgia and the Cosmic Crush, crafted with strawberry- and basil-infused vodka.
For meetings and groups, the hotel has more than 17,000 square feet of versatile event and studio space, including a 4,187-square-foot ballroom that can accommodate up to 415 guests.
In 2026, The Tess will roll out new dimensions of the guest experience. Guests can look forward to fresh dining concepts that showcase Atlanta’s culinary creativity, as well as expanded programming designed to foster dialogue and inspire community engagement. The property will also unveil new design touches to the guestrooms and public spaces.
