At HK Architects, we're dedicated to honoring Chattanooga's rich architectural heritage through the meticulous restoration of the iconic Chattanooga Bank Building.

Reviving an Architectural Gem

At HK Architects, we take pride in our role as the stewards of Chattanooga's architectural legacy. The Chattanooga Bank Building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and recognized by the National Park Service for its historic preservation significance. When tasked with the renovation of this iconic structure, we approached the project with dedication to honoring its past while integrating modern functionality.

Originally designed by renowned architect RH Hunt in the early 19th century, the Chattanooga Bank Building is designed in a proto-art deco style, with elements of the forthcoming art-deco movement inside and out alongside simplified classical architectural elements including granite cladding, marble walls, and intricate plaster detailing. As the building entered the 21st century, it faced the inevitable challenges of aging, prompting the need for a comprehensive restoration effort.

Original rendering by RH Hunt.

Attention to Historic Details

Armed with the original RH Hunt architectural drawings and copies of the specifications, the HK team embarked on a journey to preserve the building's historic integrity while giving new life its architectural interiors and systems. This includes overseeing the restoration of the building's historic materials and providing guidance to the interior design team, contractor, and subcontractors to ensure any changes were in accordance with National Park Service historic preservation guidelines.

One of the focus areas of the renovation was the building's iconic façade.  HK worked with Marvin Windows and HomeChoice Windows and Doors  to replicate and match the historic elements such as sight lines, window construction, the historic details such as the ogee lug on the window sash.

Addressing the building's distinctive granite cladding presented another challenge. As the original quarry has since closed, the construction team is currently engaged in a search for a suitable replacement, determined to maintain the structure's original aesthetic. Similarly, the restoration of the terra cotta elements, including the replacement and repair of damaged pieces, will be undertaken with the utmost care and precision. Local sculptor, Aubrey Charnell, has been commissioned to recreate the intricate plaster moldings found throughout the interior.

Blending Past and Present

Turning their attention to the the history of the interior of the building, the HK Architects team collaborated with the hospitality design firm Dutch East Design to ensure historic accuracy was maintained while giving their designers creative freedom to design an upscale, comfortable hotel experience. From the restored elevator lobby, underground speakeasy bar in the former vault, and cozy guestrooms, every detail has been considered, ensuring the historic character of the building is preserved while offering hotel guests a luxury experience.

The brass finishes, once dulled by years of neglect, are being brought back to their former glory through a specialized cleaning process that will leave them shining like new. The team's attention to detail extends to the window and door trims, baseboards, and plaster walls and ceilings, ensuring that the historic character of the building is preserved.

The Chattanooga Bank Building renovation is a testament to the power of historic preservation and the dedication of the HKS Holdings, HK Architects, Tapestry by Hilton, Grace Construction, and Dutch East Design. By honoring the original vision of RH Hunt while incorporating modern design, this project will breathe new life into a historic landmark, ensuring that it will continue to serve the city of Chattanooga for another century.