Cincinnati, OH
Discovery
This historic building, built in 1926, once held the headquarters of the Cincinnati Enquirer newspaper. With two different hotels under one roof, the design team was faced with the challenge of finding creative solutions to maintain two distinct brand qualities and experiences. The historic first-floor lobby and elevator landing required restoration of original marble and bronze details as well as a groin-vaulted ceiling with extensive stenciling dating back to 1926. To lead the historic aspects of the project and mold the 90-year old shell into two hotels with two distinct brand experiences, the owner turned to CR architecture + design, an industry leading architecture firm with experience in the hospitality industry and historic renovation restoration projects. Leading efforts to secure State and Federal Historic Tax Credits, represented millions of dollars to the owner and a huge part of this projects success.
Creation
By working with the historical agency, CR was able to negotiate the signage to accommodate the client’s needs and the historical requirements. The converted property houses a 105 key Homewood Suites and a 144 key Hampton Inn and Suites. This project also includes a shared bar, meeting space, and commercial/retail space at street level. given the Enquirer building’s unique footprint and parameters, no two rooms on a given floor were alike. Therefore, each brand’s rooms stack vertically, yet vary in design from room-to-room. While this presented a challenge, CR’s experience with full-service hotels and custom limited-service properties provided them with the ability to creatively accommodate all the brand requirements. For guests, while their room may have a slightly different layout each time they stay, their overall brand experience remains consistent.
Project Details
Lexington, KY