DonahueFavret Contractors was proud to be chosen by Warren Reuther, Chairman of Hospitality Enterprises, Inc. to renovate the old Southern Savings building, a ten story poured-in-place concrete building, constructed in 1973. The high rise is located in the downtown district on the corner of St. Charles Avenue and Commons Street. This was DFC's second conversion for Hospitality Enterprises, Inc.
Architect John Campo presented Mr. Reuther with a unique art moderne design for the hotel, depicting a contemporary theme with classically appointed European style guest rooms. The looming concrete structure offered specific challenges as the total building was gutted, such as construction codes which demanded light where there was none before. Two light wells had to be created in the center of the building to allow exterior light in to the center rooms. This allowed 36 additional interior rooms.

The striking monumental lobby is most impressive with its granite floors and maple panel walls. The ceiling is coffered with special lighting, overlooking a registration desk specifically designed for the period style. The bar area has a massive structural steel canopy glazed with obscure glass and metal drapery. Creativity in design followed through with handmade wall sconces in the elevators and lobby along with decoratively designed handrails, reminiscent of the King Charles era. The building contains 6,000 square feet of meeting areas and 143 rooms. The total project was remarkably completed six weeks earlier than scheduled.