US: Situated in the Columbia River Gorge in Washington State, the Bingen site is the brand’s second property following its debut in Portland, Oregon.
Waechter Architecture and Blossom Design worked in partnership to renovate the 80-year old schoolhouse, which now includes a spa and bathhouse, library, and cafe.
Original features such as the students’ old green lockers have been retained in the main guest hall, as well as the maple floors and existing lighting.
The schoolhouse itself houses 10 private guest rooms themed by class subjects, and two hostel-style rooms with custom triple bunkbeds.
20 private cabins also encircle the schoolhouse at the centre of the property.
“One of our primary goals was to design a hotel that not only felt connected to the Gorge, but amplified people’s experience of it,” said principal architect, Ben Waechter. “It’s exciting to stand within the hotel and cabins today and feel the complementary dialogue between the two”.
Property owner, Jessica Burke, added: “The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is one of the country’s natural gems, and we created [the hotel] to be both a basecamp for exploring the region, plus a relaxing escape for those who want to rest, relax and recharge without leaving the property”.
