Perkins + Will Jazzes Up a Former Junior High for the Hotel Grinnell in Iowa

Adolescence doesn’t usually factor into hospitality projects. But for Iowa’s Hotel Grinnell, Perkins + Will transformed a former junior high into a unique hotel that pays homage to the site’s history. The gymnasium was turned into a ballroom and the old locker room became a bar. Terrazzo floors, original to the 1921 school, were carefully restored. Branding elements play up the educational past of the building. “This is a space where old school tradition merges with new school attitude,” principal and senior designer Jacqueline McGee says. Guest room guides resemble vintage composition books and visitors are encouraged to provide comments on report cards. To top it off, client Angela Harrington, who provided valuable input throughout the process, suggested that every guest receive a bright red apple.