The Hewing Hotel
The Challenge
Transform a 120-year-old historic building into an upscale hospitality destination.
The Project
Built in 1897 in Minneapolis’s north loop as a warehouse during the lumber mill boom, the former Jackson Building become in desperate need of a re-imagining by the mid-2000’s.
“Our design goal was to create a hotel all about the locals, to embody who we are in Minneapolis without being expected or cliched,” said Ann Fritz, Director of Interiors and a partner at ESG Architecture & Design who worked with the Minnesota state Historic Preservation Society on this project.
Ann’s team preserved the building’s brick facade, visible pine beams, and 13-foot windows to let its legacy shine through. To accommodate the new vision for the property, Ann prescribed removing portions of floors two through five to create a welcoming atrium with a skylight.
“The hotel’s finishes are all authentic materials, such as solid wood, leather, steel, copper, and zinc, that will patina over time,” said Fritz. We also specified materials Minnesotans gravitate towards – wool, flannel as well as subtle plaid or Scandinavian patterns – without stereotyping ourselves as lumberjacks.
For the focal point of the Hewing Lobby, a premium gas fireplace, the TRUE 42 from Heat & Glo® was selected for its large flame and expansive viewing area. A marble surround and blackened-steel accent wall deliver an industrial-chic look. The TRUE fireplace anchors an inviting setting.
“Creating a comfortable environment where spaces feel curated was our goal to celebrate the history of the building and our culture,” Fritz said. “A fire feature creates energy, warmth and an overall glow and helps activate public spaces.”
Project Type
Remodel, Commercial
Location
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Design Builder
ESG Architecture & Design
Product
True Indoor Gas Fireplace
Transforming the 180 year old Jackson building into an upscale hotel destination was the challenge accepted by ESG Architects, Fe Equus Development, and the Minnesota State Preservation Society.
The main lobby of the Hewing features the TRUE Series direct vent gas fireplace, specified for it’s traditional flare, expansive viewing area, artisan ceramic log set and high-definition flame.
Floating, custom teardrop-shaped handblown fixtures silver and purple (an allusion to Purple Rain), courtesy of Foci Minnesota Center for Glass Arts can be found throughout, a tribute to Minnesota native and music legend Prince.
“People literally like to ‘gather round the fire” comments architect Ann Fritz, which is why this feature was hallmark of the space.
Ann Fritz
Ann’s rapid career trajectory is a testament to her passion and innate aptitude for exemplary design. Within eight years, she advanced from new intern to Director of Interiors, Partner at ESG [Elness Swenson Graham] Architecture & Design.
Ann’s masterful color and materials palette emerged from her fine arts and communications background and is continually enlivened through her ongoing study of art and design. Her formal education in interior design also established the foundation from which she’s compiled a roster of award-winning residential, workplace and hospitality projects.
Sensitive to the interpretation of an overall design concept, Ann demonstrates a thorough and thoughtful understanding of how to transform design into a dynamic brand program for clients.
Follow Ann on Instagram @esgarch_design
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