Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc. announced the debut of Le Méridien Tampa, following an adaptive re-use project that has transformed a century-old federal courthouse into the city’s newest hotel. Developed by Memphis-based Development Services Group and owned via joint venture between its CEO and President Gary Prosterman and the Atlantic American Opportunity Fund, Le Méridien Tampa offers 130 contemporary guestrooms, a modern restaurant, and state-of-the-art meeting and event space in the heart of the city’s downtown arts and entertainment district.
“Our design approach for Le Méridien—juxtaposing the old with the new in a nod to our mid-century roots—lends itself well for adaptive re-use projects such as this one in Tampa,” said Brian Povinelli, global brand leader, Le Méridien and Westin Hotels. “Le Méridien Tampa combines the building’s original architectural flourishes with contemporary design details inspired by the city, providing a truly distinctive atmosphere designed to unlock the destination for both the creative-minded traveler and locals alike.”
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the former courthouse occupies an entire city block of North Florida Avenue between Zack and Twig Streets and was previously a customs house and post office. The $26 million renovation of Le Méridien Tampa preserved the building’s most notable architectural elements, including the marble and terrazzo lobby as well as its oak door frames and window casings. Contemporary facilities include an outdoor pool, 24-hour fitness center, and business center that features a historic judge’s bench as the primary work station.
Le Méridien Tampa offers more than 4,000 square feet of contemporary meeting and event space, including a grand ballroom for up to 150 guests.
