US: Orlando-based commercial developer Northboro Builders was selected to refurbish the Foosaner Art Museum.
The property will be refurbished into a multi-use space which includes a unique boutique hotel.
Northboro CEO Larry Jarnes intends to have the hotel feature a rooftop pool and restaurant, with wide spanning views of the Atlantic and nearby Indian River. The hotel will be filled with a variety of unique art products, hoping to kickstart a new Arts District in popular tourist spot Brevard County.
Jarnes said: “It’s very important that we get the right boutique hotel partner in place for this project, which can serve as a model for other art districts across the state. While we’ve had an overwhelming interest from hoteliers so far, due to the unique nature of this waterfront arts district, we are still keeping an open mind on the perfect fit, so we are welcoming more inquiries.”
The district will be a part of the town of Melbourne, specifically in its Eau Gallie district. Plans are in the works to revamp the whole district, including a unique co-working space and food hall across the street in a former education centre.
Local officials have reacted positively to the project, hoping it will serve as a model for similar redevelopments throughout the region. Lisa Packard, arts district executive director said: “We know we are growing as a destination downtown and this particular kind of hotel project will serve the locals well while drawing more visitors to the district. I couldn’t be more excited.”
Renderings for the new property will be available in June, with development of the area underway. Northboro are currently seeking out partnership opportunities with hoteliers.
Construction opportunities have continued, with renovations a popular method for new properties. The Resident Hotels recently proposed a renovation in Edinburgh, with 4C hotels proposing a new property in Victoria.
