How did the architects reimagine an aging 484 key hotel so that the property could engage with the lively San Fernando Blvd scene in downtown Burbank?
The goals of the client were simple: Transform the hotel and adjacent properties into a destination that would draw the crowds of San Fernando Blvd down to their location. The first step was to bring the property into the 21st century. In addition to the usual code upgrades and ADA compliances, the design team introduced a significant amount of solar energy to offset energy costs.
The team designed a brand new facade and re-thought the hotel entrance, lobby, public areas and restaurants so that they would engage with the street and be a beacon to passers by. Next, the team proposed a micro-retail and entertainment center on an adjacent property based on shipping container architecture.
The container park would be connected to the property via a Woonerf, or a Living Street, created by closing a small access street between the properties to traffic and opening it to pedestrians. A large 30,000 sf convention center that could host events of all kinds is proposed at the ground level of a new ground-up hotel tower, adding an additional 100 keys to the property. The individual hotel towers host a unique set of hotel amenities, appealing to a wide range of clientele.
