FX Awards 2018 Winners
Hotel
Winner: The Dewberry Hotel in Charleston by Studio Dewberry
Image Credit: Courtesy of the Dewberry
Occupying the former L. Mendel Rivers Federal Building, The Dewberry Hotel is a unique mid-century modern gem brought back to life over an eight-year period The Dewberry is a stunning juxtaposition of past and present that cleverly mixes local materials from the South Carolina Lowcountry with design elements hinting at the hotel’s mid-century modern origin.
Southern charm is personified in a contemporary setting located in downtown Charleston, The Dewberry bearing the weight of the city’s old soul while embracing a modern sensibility of its rebirth, the result of owner John Dewberry’s vision ‘Southern Reimagined’.
Many people wanted John Dewberry to tear down the building when he started the project, but he saw the immense potential of the space, and, as a champion of historic preservation, he pushed forward. As a result, The Dewberry presents Charleston from a very personal perspective. Guests will see elements of the Lowcountry juxtaposed with mid-century modern pieces in a way that marry past and present.
Honouring the building’s original architecture The Dewberry boasts a facade of lime-washed brick, with vintage marble and metal works adorning the entry canopy, ballroom roof and rooftop function space. Simplistic yet lush landscaping gives way to a romantic 210 sq m walled Charleston garden, an authentic reimagining of this more traditional design element with bluestone walkways. Once inside, visitors are embraced by a combination of time-tested materials of the South where the space’s clean lines are softened by elegant finishes of cherry, mahogany, oak and walnut as well as handcrafted custom and curated period furnishings.
Lush fabrics and touches of marble and brass travel into the guest rooms and suites as The Dewberry unearths a timelessness within its contemporary shell.
The judges said...
‘The project provides a refreshing lift to a dated mid-century building, successfully embracing its old spirit yet offering a cool new image’
Finalists & Judges’ Comments
The Hacienda at Scribe Winery by Aidlin Darling Design
‘The layers showing the life of the building and the passing of time are a beautiful key part of the design’
QO Amsterdam by Conran and Partners
‘Both Rooms and F&B spaces look simple, beautifully lit and well detailed’
Panorama by De-Sign Interior Design Studio
‘Pet heaven:- and not bad for people!’
Axel Hotel Madrid El Equipo Creativo
‘Balanced design in the rooms of the historical part of the hotel. Punches of colours in other areas
The Principal Edinburgh Charlotte Square by Goddard Littlefair
‘Public areas look cosy and welcoming’
Moxy Berlin Humboldthain Park by JOI-Design
‘Relaxed and eclectic, reflecting the spirit of Berlin’
ION City Hotel by Minarc
‘Icelandic cool!’
OTTO HOTEL by SOMETHINK
‘Nice rooms for single occupancy’
Busaba Ayutthaya by Tidtang Studio
‘Nice use of local architecture gives a real sense of place’
