DonahueFavret Contractors was contracted by FelCor Suite Hotels, Inc., the nation's largest owner of Embassy Suites Hotels, to convert a ten story 90 year old abandoned sugar mill in the warehouse district into 90 luxury suites built to Embassy Suites standards. The registered historic structure of 60,000 square feet is located across the street from The Embassy Suites. Architect John Campo, nationally renowned for hotel designs, reflected a unique blending of building history throughout its design, including elements of steel into archways, replicated windows and some exposed masonry. The total cost of the work handled by DFC was $11,200,000. The project was filled with challenges and complicated construction, each step having to be approved by the Historic District Landmarks Commission who recognized DFC for outstanding achievement for this renovation.

Existing concrete floors were demolished and relocated to create sufficient square footage to accommodate the 90 suites. The massive perimeter masonry walls were cleaned and sealed and left exposed to identify the real character of this turn of the century building. All of the windows were replaced with authentic steel sash. DFC was also responsible for procurement and installation of the furniture and wall decor. This was a turn-key project that was all inclusive, from concrete and steel, down to shampoo in the rooms and the flatware and china in the cook-to-order kitchen. The project was completed in 410 days.

The Lofts was the winner of the "Eagle Award" in the Historical Restoration $2-99 million category at both regional and national Associated Builders & Contractors competitions. The coveted prize is a beautifully sculptured alabaster eagle elegantly mounted on a wooden and glass base. The eagle's wingspan is a full eighteen inches. ABC's National Awards of Excellence Program has become the premier competition within the construction industry that recognizes outstanding construction projects across the nation.