FRANKLIN MARRIOTT COOL SPRINGS
ABOUT THE PROJECT
Franklin Marriott Cool Springs is a stone’s throw away from the nation’s heartbeat, Nashville, Tennessee. Originally built in 1998, the hotel connects to the city’s main conference center, boasting 29,000 sf of guest space. In 2014, the client, Davidson Hotels & Resorts, partnered with tvsdesign to identify underlying brand challenges, integrate creative solutions and create an authentic Southern experience within the contemporary standards of a Marriott hotel. They subsequently embarked on a full revamp of the lobby lounge and bar, secondary public areas and refreshed the look of the guest rooms. Tvsdesign developed a color palette inspired by denim indigo over an array of warm grey neutrals to evoke the effortless and casual authenticity of the area. The hotel took on an entirely new ambiance with open space, upgraded amenities, and an overall modern and fresh design appeal that still captures the heart of the Southern essence that has always been the core of the hotel.
THE COLOR PALETTE, INSPIRED BY DENIM INDIGOS, EVOKES AN EFFORTLESS, CASUAL SOUTHERN VIBE
DESIGN GOALS & STRATEGY
The design team opened up the lobby, integrating a more flowing and communal space that gives visible access to the lobby bar and dining options. Addressing the issue of a restaurant that originally sat 24” above the main level, the entire restaurant was raised into one level, creating a more expansive and unified space while increasing the restaurant’s energy, and making it visible from all corners of the lobby. By extending the restaurant’s height while maintaining the width, the design team was able to redesign the existing bar within its existing footprint but allow it to appear twice as large.
For the appointed guest rooms, tvsdesign integrated new finishes and surfaces, including custom wall-coverings featuring Tennessee’s rolling hills as a backdrop behind each bed, multi-purpose lounge seating, and open-closets which double as multi-functional nooks for storage and in-room coffee stations.
RESULTS
The result is an authentic mix of Marriott’s contemporary fresh look and brand standards that stays true to the local, laid-back vibe. The updated design takes on a modern and fresh approach that exudes effortless, casual style and a Southern chic vibe. The ambiance of the once closed off hotel has opened this space up to be a more inviting and interactive environment. What was once a divided lobby, the lobby lounge and restaurant has transformed into a large open space integrating a variety of seating with private nooks, communal tables and library that doubles as a computer/printing station for guest. The open lounge spills into the all-day dining area allowing guests to dine as they please and where they please, transforming it into an active and engaging area.
The revitalization of the Franklin Marriott Cool Springs appeals to new and returning guests of all ages with the implementation of modern Marriott branding mixed with the region’s unique local flavor. It’s an environment that allows guests to experience the southern charm of Tennessee in the comfort of a contemporary hotel.
