Commons Hotel

Minneapolis, MN

Playing off the location near a college campus, the client wanted an Industrial schoolhouse theme. We used globes paired with industrial touches such as Edison lights, typewriters and old radios throughout the rooms, bar and lobby as well as custom fabric and wall coverings filled with local street names, evoking collegiate pride. In the restaurant, we created a private dining room partitioned off by a moveable wall that was lined with books, recalling a university library. For the flexibility to offer a sports-bar and an upscale environment, we used screens with a forest motif in the bar that transitioned to TVs during big games. For warmer months, we carved an outdoor dining space from the drive; also taking the climate into consideration, we created communal spaces – both indoor and out – surrounding fire pits, offering warmth and a chance for private moments.