Jason C.
Yelp
Ogres are like onions: they have layers. The Sheraton has layers too, and hopefully the ugly exterior does not turn you away, because the inner layers are beautiful.
First, it's located very conveniently in downtown Austin. It's easily reached by public transportation from the airport, and you can walk/scooter to University campus or music venues without much effort. You're just a few blocks away from amazing barbecue too.
The lobby area is very nice, with tons of natural light and modern design cues. It is completely different from the mottled clay look of the exterior, and overall feels much more hip and cool than you expect from a Sheraton. The ground floor lobby overlooks the bar area one level down, which followed the same style. One afternoon of my stay they were giving out complimentary boozy egg nog (it was just before Thanksgiving - Christmas creep is real), and for maybe the first time ever I found myself hanging out in a hotel lobby/bar out of enjoyment rather than necessity.
The fitness center was relatively well equipped (it's not a full gym, but it's better than the lonely treadmill and two free weights crammed in the basement that you'll see passed off in other places), and the poor was an indoor-outdoor combo (though technically "open" it was chilly and not at all pool weather). Outside was a well manicured and furnished area that functioned as an extension of the bar.
Despite the positives, there were a few service missteps. When I went out in the morning around 10 am, the zigzagging hallway (a product of the building's shape) had several pizza and takeout boxes left outside of rooms. When I returned at 9pm after a day out, they were still there. Service in the bar was slow and less-than-attentive (though food came quickly once finally ordered and the happy hour prices are excellent). I don't want to say I felt ignored, but my glass stayed empty for quite a while before anyone asked if I needed another (and it was not crowded at all).
As a Marriott gold member, I was pleased to have my request for a high-floor room honored, but I'm not sure my room with a view of a construction site was an "upgrade" (though the other side of the hotel may face the noisy bars in the neighborhood). The room felt small by Texas standards and the bathroom felt more budget than chic. Clearly the renovations and updates in the lobby have not come to the guest rooms yet. My TV did not work at all, but I didn't really want to use it anyway. Still, the bed was comfy, the wi-fi acceptable, and the water pressure strong. Check-in/out was no problem at all.
I would for sure stay here again if cash rates remain competitive. I booked directly with Marriott, and when I found a lower price on an online travel agency, they matched the rate.