Visiting the Kimpton Hotel Arras is a truly immersive experience that will leave you in awe. In an interview with David McCartney, the general manager of the hotel, he shared some fascinating insights about the history and renovation of the building. The hotel, named after a village in France, draws inspiration from Asheville’s rich arts and crafts heritage, with a particular focus on tapestry. The original building, formerly a BB&T bank, underwent a complete transformation, with the interior gutted and the exterior stripped. What emerged is a stunning hotel with a distinctive art deco style. The hotel boasts two fabulous restaurants, Bargello and District 42, offering a diverse range of Mediterranean-inspired dishes and small plates. Inside the rooms, guests are treated to a mountain modern aesthetic, with beautiful views and commissioned artwork. The hotel also features a fitness center, massage room, and an exclusive wine cellar for private dining. If you’re planning a visit to Asheville, the Kimpton Hotel Arras is the perfect choice for a truly unforgettable stay.
Visiting the Kimpton Hotel Arras
Introduction to the Kimpton Hotel Arras
Welcome to the Kimpton Hotel Arras! Located in downtown Asheville, this luxurious hotel offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and exceptional amenities, the Kimpton Hotel Arras is the perfect destination for a memorable stay in Asheville.
Overview of the Renovation Process
The Kimpton Hotel Arras is housed in the former BB&T bank building, which was built in the early 1960s. After living a full life, the building underwent a complete renovation by the company to transform it into a modern hotel. The renovation involved gutting the interior and removing the exterior, leaving only the cement floors and columns. The building was then rebuilt, with the ground floor dedicated to the hotel’s restaurants, the next nine floors reserved for guest rooms, and the 10th floor and above consisting of private condominiums.
History and Significance of the Original Building
Asheville locals will remember the former BB&T bank building that now houses the Kimpton Hotel Arras. This iconic building holds a special place in the hearts of many, as it was a symbol of Asheville’s history and growth. The renovation of the building not only preserved its significant architecture but also brought new life to the space, allowing visitors to appreciate the building’s historical importance.
Exterior Design and Decor
One of the standout features of the Kimpton Hotel Arras is its striking art deco-inspired exterior design. The building pays homage to the era with its sleek lines, geometric patterns, and intricate details. This art deco nod continues throughout the hotel, creating a cohesive design theme that is both elegant and timeless.
Restaurants and Dining Options
Guests at the Kimpton Hotel Arras are in for a treat when it comes to dining options. The hotel features two exceptional restaurants, Bargello and District 42, each offering a unique culinary experience.
Bargello Restaurant: Mediterranean Cuisine
Bargello, the hotel’s main restaurant, specializes in Mediterranean-themed cuisine. The menu showcases a blend of flavors from different Mediterranean regions, resulting in a diverse and eclectic menu. One of the standout dishes at Bargello is their homemade pasta, made right in the building along with freshly baked bread. Guests can indulge in a delightful breakfast with freshly made bread or enjoy a delectable dinner with exquisite pasta dishes.
District 42 Bar: Small Plates and Drinks
Located within the Kimpton Hotel Arras, District 42 is a vibrant bar that offers a variety of small plates and drinks. The name “District 42” pays homage to Asheville’s history, referring to the first 42 lots laid out in the downtown area. The bar creates a lively and inviting atmosphere, providing the perfect setting for guests to unwind and enjoy a drink or two while savoring delicious small plates.
Inspiration for Interior Decor
The interior decor of the Kimpton Hotel Arras draws inspiration from the surrounding natural beauty and architectural heritage of Asheville. The design concept is known as “mountain modern,” which integrates contemporary elements with rustic charm.
Mountain Modern Design
The guest rooms at the Kimpton Hotel Arras embody the mountain modern design aesthetic. The beds, complete with floor-to-ceiling headboards and canopies, create a striking focal point in each room. These headboards feature custom-made commissioned art pieces by Hawk Creek Forge, showcasing hammered copper art that represents the French Broad River. The bathrooms are adorned with beautiful collages by Wendy Newman, adding a touch of artistic elegance to the space.
Commissioned Art and Pottery
The Kimpton Hotel Arras proudly supports local artists by featuring commissioned artwork and pottery throughout the hotel. Each guest room and suite showcases unique pieces created by local artisans, further enhancing the connection between the hotel and the Asheville community.
Art Deco Nods and Details
Adding to the charm and character of the Kimpton Hotel Arras, the hotel incorporates subtle art deco nods and details. For instance, the top of the building features an art deco arch, signifying the hotel’s commitment to preserving the architectural history of Asheville. King-sized beds in the rooms also showcase art deco-inspired ironwork outside the shower, creating a visually striking and luxurious ambiance.
Additional Accommodations and Amenities
In addition to exquisite dining options and stunning interior decor, the Kimpton Hotel Arras offers a range of accommodations and amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for every guest.
Fitness Center with Views
The hotel’s third floor features a state-of-the-art fitness center with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Guests can enjoy a workout session while taking in the breathtaking scenery through the large windows. The fitness center offers a range of equipment, including aerobic machines, weight machines, and even two Peloton bicycles for guests who enjoy cycling.
Massage Room Partnership with Urban Exhale
For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, the Kimpton Hotel Arras has a partnership with Urban Exhale, a local massage therapy company. The hotel features a dedicated massage room where guests can indulge in a variety of massage treatments and spa services provided by Urban Exhale’s highly skilled therapists. Whether it’s a deep tissue massage or a soothing spa treatment, guests can unwind and pamper themselves in the hotel’s tranquil atmosphere.
The Wine Cellar in the Basement
One of the hidden gems of the Kimpton Hotel Arras is its exclusive wine cellar, located in the basement. During the renovation process, a void spot was discovered underground, and the owners seized the opportunity to create a unique dining space. The wine cellar offers an intimate setting for parties of up to 12 people to enjoy a private dining experience surrounded by an extensive selection of fine wines.
Booking and Availability
To book a stay at the Kimpton Hotel Arras and experience the exceptional hospitality and amenities, visit the official website at hotelaris.com. The website provides detailed information about the hotel, its offerings, and availability. Booking directly through the website ensures a seamless reservation process and access to exclusive hotel promotions and packages.
Conclusion
Summary of the Kimpton Hotel Arras Experience
The Kimpton Hotel Arras offers a truly remarkable experience for visitors to Asheville. From the moment you step inside, you are greeted with stunning art deco-inspired architecture and a warm and inviting atmosphere. The hotel’s dedication to supporting local artists and businesses is evident in its commissioned artwork and pottery. The mountain modern design of the guest rooms provides a peaceful retreat, showcasing custom art pieces and offering luxurious amenities.
Location and Accessibility
Situated in the heart of downtown Asheville, the Kimpton Hotel Arras is ideally located for guests to explore and experience all that the city has to offer. Nearby attractions include breweries, hiking trails, rivers, and the famous Biltmore Village. With its central location, the hotel provides easy access to the vibrant downtown area, ensuring that guests can immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere and dine at some of Asheville’s finest restaurants.
The Perfect Destination for Asheville Visitors
Whether you are seeking a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a business trip, the Kimpton Hotel Arras is the perfect destination. With its exceptional dining options, stunning interior decor, and exemplary service, the hotel ensures that every guest has a memorable and enjoyable stay. Embrace the charm and beauty of Asheville by choosing to stay at the Kimpton Hotel Arras, where luxury and comfort come together to create a truly unforgettable experience.