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Southern Hotel

Historic restoration and conversion of a vacant office building into a 42-room boutique hotel.

Category Hospitality
Adaptive Reuse + Modernization

Size 38,470 SF

Location Covington, LA

Year 2014

Opportunity

Originally constructed in 1907, the Southern Hotel was the premier destination for those traveling through the Northshore as well as wealthy New Orleanians wishing to escape the heat. In the 1960s, the hotel was converted to office and retail, and later housed municipal offices. After the city moved to their current City Hall location, the building languished.

In 2011, new ownership embarked on a mission to revive the hotel's inherent character, despite the challenges posed by its aged façade. The building was thoroughly gutted to stabilize the structure and reveal its historic elements. Noteworthy replacements, such as floor joists and wooden beams, were undertaken, and the second-floor system was meticulously leveled. The restoration included reinstating the lobby, central fireplace, and creating public spaces for a contemporary hotel experience.

Strategy

The project involved a  blend of historic preservation and contemporary adaptation. Drawing inspiration from historic maps, the interior layouts were reimagined to echo the original plan, making adjustments for modern use.

The exterior transformation was equally significant, with the removal of incongruous additions and transforming a hot parking lot into a vibrant courtyard. The addition of a hotel ballroom and thoughtful street-level activations contribute to a harmonious integration with the surrounding environment, ensuring the building's heritage is preserved while adapting for contemporary needs.

Leveraging  expertise in renovation and historic tax credits, TPA played a crucial role in offsetting construction costs through state and federal subsidies.

Outcome

By restoring the hotel’s original elegance and charm, the project revives a cherished local landmark, creating an inviting, historically resonant space that enhances the Northshore’s appeal for residents and visitors alike. This approach bolsters the client’s mission to create a distinctive destination and supports the local economy by attracting tourism and community events. The courtyard, ballroom, and public spaces integrate seamlessly into the neighborhood, encouraging community engagement while providing flexible spaces for both social gatherings and private events. The use of sustainable practices further underscores the project’s long-term value, setting an example of environmental stewardship in the community. The result is a thoughtfully revitalized space that serves as a bridge between past and present, enriching the area’s cultural landscape and supporting the city’s growth and heritage.

Awards

Louisiana Office of Cultural DevelopmentLouisiana Culture Award for Preservation Heritage, 2015

Foundation for Historical LouisianaPhoenix Award, 2014

ENR Texas and LouisianaBest Small Projects (Under $10 Million), 2014

The Team

Peter Trapolin

Kevin Barns

Blake Kidder

Ashley King

Related Projects

Summer House at Southern Hotel

The Pontchartrain Hotel

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850 Tchoupitoulas Street
New Orleans, LA 70130
info@trapolinpeer.com
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