Embassy Suites, part of the Hilton Worldwide group, has opened in a historic building in the heart of downtown Louisville, Kentucky, with modern two-room suites and amenities but many of the historic details of the building maintained, including original, fully restored ceilings.
The lobby features a large clock which once graced the entry way of the building when it was the Stewart’s Dry Goods Building, originally opened in 1907. To this day, the building is a downtown landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places in Louisville, Kentucky.
One wall of the 304-suite hotel features artistic tiles of hand-sanded orchids, paying homage to The Orchid Tea Room, which was once a bustling restaurant on the sixth floor of the popular Louisville department store.
Owner, Embassy Suites Louisville Downtown, Eric P. Bachelor said: “A lot of research was done to find the right designer that could transform this beautiful historical building into a unique and edgy adaptive reuse hotel that I had envisioned. The hotel features private balconies, an expansive lobby with soaring ceiling heights, a high energy lobby bar, images of the building’s historic past, guest room skylights and well preserved 100 year old architecture.”
“The hotel will be a catalyst for the emerging growth of the city, which is being nationally recognized, and inspire others to do the same,” he said.
“We are so proud to bring back to life the former Stewart’s Dry Goods building,” says Charlie Olisa, General Manager, Embassy Suites Louisville Downtown. “We wanted to preserve the outstanding, original turn-of-the-century commercial architecture and keep the historical details of the building intact while making sure we still offered modern amenities and conveniences Embassy Suites guests love.”
Close to lots of entertainment options
Located in the centre of the Downtown Business District close to all major employers, the hotel is within walking distance of major entertainment options including 4th Street Live! and the Kentucky Centre for the Performing Arts. The hotel, situated five miles from Louisville International Airport, will be a destination for tourists looking to sample Kentucky’s fine bourbons on Whiskey Row or to tour the town’s historic landmarks and museums.
“We’re excited to expand our presence in Louisville, Kentucky and transform this historic building into a thriving Embassy Suites hotel,” said John Rogers, global head, Embassy Suites Hotels. “Historic properties have wide-ranging appeal for both guests and developers alike and this hotel is a clear demonstration of Embassy Suites’ flexible approach to development.”
The dining experience features a fine dining seafood restaurant, Brendon’s Catch 23, which is connected to the hotel and features steak and low country options.
Meeting space is comprised of nine separate meeting rooms totaling 15,000 square feet with the largest room accommodating up to 350 guests in a business or social setting. A private dining room and three private atriums fit for receptions are available for up to fifty guests.
For more information on this hotel, go to Embassy Suites.
