Located inside The Interlock, a multi-use development named for a site where four railroad lines formerly converged, newly opened Bellyard, West Midtown Atlanta, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, features 161 suites and guestrooms outfitted by Nelson Worldwide with amenities spanning USB charging ports, cold plasma air filtration systems, and minibars stocked with locally-curated snacks and provisions. “Previously known for its soap factory, stockyards, meatpacking plants, and machinery, this area houses several original buildings with gothic, industrial architecture that gives the neighborhood its charm,” says Alex Campbell, Director of Hospitality Studio, in Alpharetta, Georgia. “Bellyard, owned and operated by Marriott, pays homage to the early 1900s, with thoughtfully-designed moments that honor this time. Nelson Worldwide took inspiration from the progressive expansion of Atlanta toward the west and the industrial-cool feeling that comes with part of that expansion.”
For the warm and inviting indoor-outdoor spaces, Campbell and his team pulled influences from the nearby surroundings. “Our favorite aspect of the design is how it feels like stepping into a comfortable living room, where you can hang out, dine, socialize, work, or relax,” he explains. “We love how all the spaces flow easily into each other so you always feel like you’re part of the action, while the finishes and furniture give this sense of warmth and coziness.”
Main hang out zones include the garden courtyard with a custom mural by local artist Lacey Longino, and the hotel’s on-site, American tavern-style eatery, Drawbar. “In the middle of the hotel, guests will find themselves immersed in the garden courtyard, the oasis within Bellyard,” says Campbell. “This garden invites guests to step into a sea of green, luscious plants, soft and cozy furniture, and lighting evoking a warm and relaxing aesthetic. Contrasting this atmosphere is a colorful mural, giving off an exuberant and vibrant energy.”
At Drawbar, guests can indulge in menu items served up by Executive Chef Christina Wai using locally-sourced ingredients such as Crawfish-sweet corn hushpuppies with chipotle honey; heirloom tomatoes and strawberry toast with burrata and mint; and the Chimichurri Ribeye with arugula. “Inspired by the entrepreneurial spirit of West Midtown, a community that is the connecting element between the past and the future of Atlanta, the Drawbar is a bar and lounge that has a playful take on modern bar food,” says Campbell. “Adjacent to the Draw Bar is a terrace that allows guests to connect with the energy of the streets and with passersby heading to their favorite dining or retail destinations. Luscious green vines and vibrant light illuminate the lounge, and impressive views of the city skyline dominate the terrace.”
The hotel also features an impressive art collection including a Tiny Door ATL installation in the lobby. The public art project is comprised of more than twenty 7-inch doors made by local artist Karen Anderson Singer. “Residents of Atlanta always have their eyes peeled for these fun art installations all across the city, so to have one in the lobby is such a fun touch,” adds Campbell. “It adds an element of discovery and an anchor to the community, which was such a large part of the design concept as a whole.”
