A New Era in Bend: Adaptive Reuse Hotel Brings Life to Historic Post Office
The Westman stands as a symbol of the potential found in breathing new life into historic spaces. What once was Bend’s old post office is being meticulously transformed into an inviting boutique hotel. This project marries the charm of history with modern amenities, offering guests a distinctive lodging experience.
The adaptive reuse approach not only preserves the architectural beauty and heritage of the building but also enriches Bend’s cultural landscape, creating a meaningful bridge between the past and the present.
The story of how The Westman was established and transformed into an adaptive reuse hotel pays homage to nostalgia, illustrating how we create connections and relevance by preserving the lived experience.
The logic behind an adaptive reuse hotel
Transforming the old post office into The Westman is more than just a hotel conversion. The building’s historic status and prime location provide a unique backdrop that modern structures cannot replicate. Adaptive reuse hotels, like The Westman, leverage the character and stories embedded in their walls, creating an immersive experience for guests seeking something special.
The architectural details of the old post office, from its Neo-Classical elements to Art Deco flourishes, are preserved and highlighted, offering guests a tangible link to the past. This approach not only respects the original structure but also enhances it with modern amenities, making the hotel both a comfortable and inspiring place to stay.
By repurposing this beloved building, The Westman stands out as a refreshing alternative, setting a new standard in Bend’s hospitality scene. Ultimately, the adaptive reuse model ensures that a piece of Bend’s history remains vibrant and relevant, turning the static monument into a living, breathing part of the community once again.
The power of nostalgia
The Westman’s origin story is deeply rooted in nostalgia. In the late 1970s, while other families road-tripped to Disneyland or spent a week at the beach, a vacation for a young boy from the mountains of rural Linn County was a day trip to Bend with his family. The trip meant spending time together walking the city and picking out a sandwich from the local deli. The drive home often included a stop along the Metolius River to fish.
While modest and simple, these holidays made a lasting impression on the boy. Forty years later, he and his business partner purchased the old post office in downtown Bend, just blocks from where that deli used to be. They were inspired to give back to the city that had served as the backdrop for cherished childhood memories.
Delivering a dream into existence
The Westman journey began with a simple desire: to create a singular hotel destination near unparalleled outdoor recreation where guests can enjoy extraordinary experiences.
The ownership team searched the Western United States to find the perfect spot for their first and only hotel. Each location they visited, while charming in its own right, didn’t quite capture the essence they were looking for. Bend, however, with its unique blend of natural beauty, energetic dining, and culture scene kept drawing them back.
When the historic post office became available, it presented a chance to create something of real significance. The building’s rich history, distinctive architecture, and central location made it an ideal candidate for transformation. The old post office, once a social hub, is poised to become a destination where people can once again connect and find community.
By choosing this iconic landmark, the team saw a chance to preserve a piece of Bend’s heritage while infusing it with new life. The Westman is a testament to the beauty of repurposing history to serve contemporary needs.
Each guest room and common area is thoughtfully designed to evoke feelings of nostalgia and warmth, encouraging guests to slow down and appreciate their surroundings. At the Westman, guests can forge meaningful connections and lasting memories.
Whether through shared stories of Bend’s history or moments spent enjoying the scenic beauty of the area, the hotel embodies the spirit of Oregon. It’s a destination that honors the past while providing an upscale, authentic experience that will leave guests with a deeper appreciation for the world around them.
A community-centric investment
The vision for The Westman extends beyond its walls, aiming to be a meaningful addition to the Bend community. The project will revitalize the corner of NW Wall Street and NW Franklin Avenue, reincorporating it into downtown. This project is a testament to the power of thoughtful investments that enrich the neighborhood and breathe new life into cherished spaces.
The efforts to integrate The Westman into the local fabric are intentional and community-focused. The project brings together Oregon-based partners, ensuring that the investment stays within the state and benefits local businesses. Collaborations with local historians and the Deschutes Historical Museum have ensured an authentic touch, making the hotel a living museum where guests can interact with the history of Bend.
Supporting nearby shops, restaurants, cultural attractions, and recreational outfitters is a top priority for the hotel, creating a ripple effect that strengthens community ties and encourages sustainable development.
Preserving a piece of American history
To achieve the level of meticulous preservation and respectful adaptation the project requires, the owners enlisted the expertise of Emerick Architects, a family-owned Oregon-based company well-versed in adaptive reuse and preservation. Their approach ensures the building’s Neo-Classical and Art Deco elements are retained and celebrated. The architectural nuances of the original structure serve as a foundation upon which new features and amenities can be thoughtfully integrated.
R&H Construction, an Oregon firm with offices in Bend, plays a pivotal role in executing this vision, merging historical integrity with modern comforts. Their local knowledge and craftsmanship have been crucial in maintaining the authenticity of the building while introducing the conveniences expected by today’s travelers.
The Westman provides a unique narrative experience as the newest addition to the many remarkable historic hotels of America. By weaving historical artifacts and original architectural features into the design plan for the hotel, the project goes beyond mere aesthetics. It creates an environment where guests can experience the rich history of Bend firsthand and get a sense of the collective optimism and ambition embraced in the early 20th century.
a love letter to Bend
But The Westman is more than an adaptive reuse hotel; it’s a celebration of Bend’s rich tapestry of history, pioneering spirit, and extraordinary landscapes.
Guests will immerse themselves in an environment where the past and present seamlessly blend, fostering a sense of connection and belonging. The hotel’s commitment to local partnerships ensures that each stay offers an authentic taste of Oregon, from craft beers and fine dining to rugged outdoor adventures and celestial nightscapes.
Every getaway, however grand or humble, offers us a chance to step away from daily routines to gain fresh perspectives and enrich our lives. The Westman, with its unique and soulful surroundings, is our answer to this necessity, providing a space to inspire joy and infuse life with meaning.
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