Archetech Issue 44 2019 | Page 133

When it comes to beautiful façades, the dual-branded Marriott isn’t Neolith’s first, but it’s certainly one of its most prominent; the hotel sits at the centre of a brand new, £3.3 billion mixed-use development in bustling Dallas Midtown, an area dubbed a ‘city within a city’ and which has seen a revitalisation set to transform the urban landscape of the sprawling Texan metropolis. A FLARE FOR FAÇADES To reflect the neighbourhood’s resurgence, award-winning, Dallas- based architecture firm 5G Studio Collaborative sought an outside the box, contemporary design to match the timelessness, comfort and authenticity of the Marriott brand. The firm crafted an engaging aesthetic that embraces AC Hotels’ signature Spanish architectural heritage and European flair, while also incorporating Dallas’ modern architectural style with fabricated metal rainscreens. Creating a memorable first impression for guests, the hotel’s striking 5,000-square-foot entrance façade also features thoughtfully designed trapezoid-shaped Sintered Stone slabs carefully put together by local fabricator and installer Holland Marble. Speaking on the design, Lauren Cadieux, Associate and Designer at 5G Studio Collaborative, commented, “The client requested a natural-looking material for this project, however genuine rock such as marble is susceptible to staining and breakage. We suggested Neolith because not only is it classic and elegant, but it is strong and long-lasting. “The design journey was an enjoyable one as we were able to maintain the initial concept right from the beginning stages until completion. We are very happy with the end result: a seemingly ‘floating’ façade that transitions effortlessly across the front, west and east sides of the exterior and which also has a welcoming effect—an aspect vital to a commercial space such as a hotel.” WHEN IT COMES TO BEAUTIFUL FAÇADES, THE DUAL-BRANDED MARRIOTT ISN’T NEOLITH’S FIRST, BUT IT’S CERTAINLY ONE OF ITS MOST PROMINENT.