Melrose Hotel Conference Center Addition

Built in 1924 and located in the heart of Oak Lawn, the Warwick Melrose Hotel is one of only 200 hotels in the United States recognized by Historic Hotels of America for preserving and maintaining its historic integrity, architecture, and ambiance. Warwick engaged GFF Architecture to design and document a $4 million, 13,500-square-foot one-story conference center. As part of this work, GFF Planning was tasked with designing and documenting the site work.

The project included the rehabilitation and expansion of the surface parking lot, the creation of an elegant motor court that preserved many existing live oaks, and the addition of features such as enhanced paving and a sculpture. Additionally, an intimate 5,000-square-foot pool courtyard was developed as part of the conference center expansion. Surrounded by an 8-foot-high decorative brick wall and columns, this courtyard includes a 1,400-square-foot heated swimming pool with a lap lane, water features, private pool cabanas, and an indoor/outdoor bar area. The plantings blend with and extend the existing landscape design of the hotel.

The design addresses the need to seamlessly integrate new conference and recreational facilities with the historic character of the Warwick Melrose Hotel. By preserving existing trees and incorporating high-quality materials and landscaping, the project enhances the hotel’s aesthetic appeal and provides modern amenities for guests. The careful attention to detail ensures that the new additions complement the historic setting, offering an elegant and functional space for conferences and leisure.