ROSEMONT, Ill.
Rosemont, Ill.-based First Hospitality Group, Inc. recently gave a sneak peak tour of its latest adaptive reuse project—the conversion of the former Federal Building in Omaha, Neb., into a Residence Inn by Marriott— to a select group of 100 Omaha business leaders and government officials. The renovation project, scheduled for completion this summer, will retain many of the building’s historic and original characteristics and building materials. First Hospitality Group, Inc. President and COO Robert Habeeb made the announcement.
The exclusive event featured hardhat tours of the building, insider commentary from First Hospitality Group Chairman and CEO Stephen Schwartz and an evening reception to celebrate the hotel’s progress. The $23 million transformation of the Omaha Federal Building, which began in April of 2012, will preserve and utilize all of the building’s original marble, terrazzo tile, wooden railings and brass fixtures. The building will feature a 1,000-square-foot penthouse on the 12th floor with panoramic views of Omaha and nearly 2,000 square feet of meeting space. Old items found in the building, such as the original 1934 FBI Most Wanted poster, will also be preserved and displayed when the hotel opens.
“Transforming this historic treasure into a one-of-a-kind modern hotel while maintaining the traditional architectural features and details continues to be an exciting process,” said Habeeb. “We are pleased to be able to pull back the renovation curtain at this critical phase in the renovation process and engage the community as we prepare for a summer 2013 opening.”
