Hotel Elkhart Named Top Restoration Project in Indiana

Elkhart, IN - The Indiana Landmarks, the largest statewide preservation group in the United States, recently named the Hotel Elkhart, a Hilton Tapestry Collection hotel, the top revitalization project in Indiana. The development group 500 Main, LLC, was awarded the 2024 Cook Cup for outstanding restoration.

The $19 million revitalization project of Hotel Elkhart has transformed the 1923 property to its original glory while maintaining the historic attributes that make the building unique and incorporating modern comforts.

The Hotel Elkhart was the Grand Dame of this community for decades. To be part of the team that restored this historic property and brought new life into it has been an honor. We have strived to keep the building's historic integrity and have paid homage to its history through interior design and enhanced guest experiences. Kimberly Christner, president and CEO of Cornerstone Hospitality

For over a century, Hotel Elkhart has been the tallest downtown building, resulting in the property's physical and metaphorical presence in the community. Originally built as a hotel, the building has seen many lives as a hotel, an apartment building, an office building, and, lastly, as senior housing.

In 2017, with renewed interest in revamping the core of downtown, Cressy Commercial Real Estate and Mno-Bmadsen, the non-gaming investment arm of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians, joined forces as 500 Main, LLC, to undertake a complete renovation of the historic hotel. The project created 93 guest rooms, two restaurants, a ballroom, meeting space, a rooftop bar, fitness rooms and commercial laundry facilities. The group also made the decision to join Hilton’s Lifestyle Brand, Tapestry Collection by Hilton. And since opening, the property consistently ranks in the top ten properties in the Hilton Tapestry portfolio.

Since opening in September 2021, we have seen the local community embrace the hotel, eating at our restaurants, staying at the hotel, and recommending it to others when they are looking for a place to stay while in town, Christner added. We also have seen 18 new businesses within walking distance of the hotel open since the Hotel Elkhart reopened, bringing new life into an already vibrant downtown Elkhart.

Each year, Indiana Landmarks awards the Cook Cup to the property owner who follows the highest standards of restoration in transforming a significant historic building, with positive impact on the neighborhood or community. Indiana Landmarks created the Cook Cup for Outstanding Restoration in 2007, when the inaugural prize went to the award’s namesake family in honor of its transformation of the West Baden and French Lick Springs hotels in southern Indiana. The Cook family is nationally recognized for their many restorations of significant landmarks throughout Indiana.

For more information or to make your room and dining reservations today, visit https://www.hotelelkhart.com/.

About Hotel Elkhart

A historic emblem since 1923, Hotel Elkhart has been meticulously revived, reflecting the splendor of the Jazz Age. Relaunching in 2021, this architectural treasure integrates Elkhart’s vibrant history and artistic essence into a contemporary hospitality experience. The Hotel Elkhart is a testament to heritage and craftsmanship, with original design elements meticulously preserved. Managed by Cornerstone Hospitality LLC, cornerstonehospitality.com. The hotel redefines the guest experience with personalized service, inviting you to immerse in the rich arts, entertainment, and shopping of historic Downtown Elkhart.

About Cornerstone Hospitality LLC

Cornerstone Hospitality LLC is a leading hospitality management and development company known for managing branded hotels and developing distinctive boutique hotels with historical roots in unique destinations. With a strong focus on showcasing the history and culture of each location, Cornerstone Hospitality creates unique and memorable experiences for guests. The company's portfolio includes 15 hotels, nine food and beverage outlets, and banquet venues. In addition, Cornerstone Hospitality offers market research services for individuals and town leaders interested in boutique hotel opportunities. For more information, visit www.cornerstonehospitality.com.

Pamela Devaney
Managing Director
7608464640
Cornerstone Hospitality, LLC