char·ac·ter -[kar-ik-ter] noun
The Iron Horse has character that makes the building feel alive. The past is merged with the present perfectly in a way that creates a unique and cohesive environment for guests. The item that I chose to photograph that I feel is one detail that gives the building character is the table bases that were made from the original elevator shaft of the hotel. The repurposing of the elevator shaft to the table bases gives the furniture a dignified and yet rustic appearance, giving character to the hotel.
It was clear, the moment I stepped foot into the Iron Horse Hotel, that a lot of thought was put into the branding of the hotel. The extensive thought that has been put into the repurposing of the building is one of the main contributing factors as to why the operation is as successful as it is.
"Character." Dictionary.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 4 Oct 2011.
I agree that an extensive amount of thought was put into the branding of this hotel. The fact that they used gears as the bases for tables shows that the designers and planners were concerned about preserving the history of the building, as well as utilizing what they had to work with. What are some of the other visual factors that you think make the hotel a success?
ReplyDeleteOne of the things I like about your photo is how you captured the natural light draping across the table and chair. This, in addition to the aged look of the furniture, really gives the sense of an old factory where light would stream in through some dusty windows.
I was really glad when our tour guide mentioned all the re-purposing throughout the hotel. The original elevator gears were subtle enough to not even be noticed. I have to agree with you that there was a lot planned in the branding of the hotel. I'd like to ask you if you would of felt the same way if the Edison bulbs were not in place? Because although most of the original structure was kept, I believe the lights made the most impact.
ReplyDeleteJessica, excellent image to convey the idea of repurposing materials already found in the building.
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