The design for this large-scale site repurposed the historic Savannah Morning News building to fill an entire city block with new and varied activity. The 160,000 SF project included the adaptive reuse of three historic buildings, the demolition of two non-historic buildings, a new six-story mixed use building and outdoor plaza, and connection to a multi-level underground parking deck. The design included more than 30,000 SF of ground floor retail with 46 residential condominiums above. LS3P (formerly Dawson Architects) conducted extensive historic research using records and photos from the Georgia Historical Society, integrating both historic elements and contemporary detailing in the design. Three towers define and organize the site, delineating the entrances to retail, hotel, and office components. A pedestrian courtyard through the center of the site creates a walkable, welcoming corridor between River Street amenities and parking while serving as an oasis from the lively street life. Inspired by historic photos, street-level canopies and balconies overlooking the courtyard reference Savannah’s architectural vernacular, recalling side porches and other human-scale details.

Within the development, LS3P also designed the exterior of the 151- room Andaz Hotel and Studio Homes, a 28-unit condominium infill project with rooftop terrace. Part of the award winning renewal of Ellis Square, it is an integral piece of the largest public/private redevelopment venture in Savannah’s recent history.