Cincinnati’s Fidelity Hotel is breathing new life into the historic Gwynne Building, a Beaux-Arts landmark. The 165-room hotel, developed by New Waterloo, blends preservation with modern hospitality needs, adopting the industry’s shift toward site-responsive, adaptive reuse design.
A Historic Transformation
The Gwynne Building, once home to Procter & Gamble’s headquarters, was designed by architect Ernest Flagg in the early 20th century. Its restoration balances historical integrity with contemporary hotel demands, preserving the building’s ornate details while introducing functional updates for urban travelers.
The design, led by Looney & Associates, draws inspiration from Cincinnati’s nickname, the “Paris of America.” The lobby features vaulted ceilings, steel flourishes, and geometric marble floors, creating a layered, residential feel. Bold wallcoverings and locally curated art soften the grandeur, while recessed passageways guide guests to the hotel’s dining spaces.
Local Flavor in Dining
The hotel’s dining spaces reflect Cincinnati’s history. Gwynne restaurant, in a light salmon pink hue, serves a menu inspired by the region’s Ohio River Valley and “Porkopolis” heritage, crafted by Chef Brad Bernstein. Cora’s All Day Café nods to the historic Fountain District markets, serving as a social hub for guests and locals alike, with its design evoking the area’s urban vitality.
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Guest rooms adopt an apartment-style design, with unlacquered brass, hardwood floors, and layered textiles creating a sense of evolved intimacy. A darker paint palette and frame moulding balance the room’s scale, while locally sourced minibars and Parachute bathrobes add luxury and authenticity.
Architectural Challenges and Innovations
Restoring the National Register–listed building was complex. The structure, a composite of four buildings with varying systems, required a new four-story light court and grand staircase to unify the space. This central feature brings air and light into the interior, reinforcing the building’s historical character. Reopened terraces connect guests to Cincinnati’s skyline, anchoring the hotel to its downtown setting.
In a market already home to established art-centric hospitality like the 21c Museum Hotel, Fidelity distinguishes itself through its commitment to architectural authenticity. By honoring the Gwynne Building’s heritage and incorporating modern comfort, it offers a unique identity rooted in its historic setting, prioritizing cumulative detail over flashy installations.
