The Spectator

An extraordinary attention to detail.

This upscale hotel quickly established a sense of place and identity by re-imagining traditional materials and architectural elements in a timeless way. The prominent corner site offered an opportunity to establish a grand presence, engaging pedestrians and animating the façade with a stunning lobby and inviting street-level lounge. The two-story entry volume grows to four stories at the interior of the site. Subtle variations in the planes of the façade create dimension, depth, and an interplay of light and shadow. The brick façade utilizes two colors of brick, cast stone, and zinc paneling and careful detailing for subtle scale and texture. The wrought iron railings nod to the French Quarter’s historic aesthetic. Balconies carved out of the prominent corner provide a sense of lightness and transparency reminiscent of Charleston’s famous side porch while framing views of St. Philips Church.

A classic black metal canopy delineates the grand entrance into the lobby. High ceilings, a marble fountain, elegant lighting, and custom millwork all frame the minimal check-in desk. The lobby flows into an upscale library and lounge with a variety of seating areas to welcome guests. The intricately detailed dark wood of the back-of-bar space contrasts with the white marble bar top. The coffered ceiling, inset with antique mirrors, draws the eye upward and animates the space. Dark wood, sculptural metal light fixtures and a rich color palette of deep blues with gold and white accents define the space.

Elon, NC