A quick look at the brief Deborah Berke Partners got for the 21c Museum Hotel Durham in North Carolina resembles a summary of almost every hot design trend. There’s the art emphasis, including a permanent gallery space. There’s the heritage building — the 125-key hotel is a reuse of a 1930s structure that originally served as a store and a bank. There’s the need for effortlessly modern design in the rooms.
A neutral palette serves as a backdrop for both art in the public spaces and vivid lighting in the guest bathrooms. Eye-catching lighting makes the ceiling a focal point for the restaurant and bar.
“Downtown Durham is energized with art, culture, education and a dining scene that has been recognized as one of the best in the South,” said Steve Wilson, CEO and founder of 21c Museum Hotels. “21c Museum Hotels is about contemporary art, warm hospitality, local food and community. We strive to build not just great places to eat, drink and spend the night, but cultural centers that help reinvigorate urban areas. The revitalization efforts underway in Durham have produced amazing results, and we aim to enhance those efforts and offer an additional resource for art, social engagement and civic conversations.”
//