Lark Hotels, a boutique hotel collection with 21 properties in New England and beyond, opened its first New York hotel, The Downtowner, in Saratoga Springs, N.Y. Formerly known as the Saratoga Downtowner, The Downtowner’s 42 newly renovated guestrooms pay homage to the hotel’s past as a retro motor lodge and the surrounding area’s community of writers, performers and visual artists. Located on what is known as the “50-yard line” of Broadway Street at the corner of Division Street, The Downtowner is a short walk away from the racetracks and Saratoga Springs’ bars, restaurants and shops.
Originally a motel in the 1960s, the building has long been home base to the many artists that have been drawn to Saratoga Springs for decades. The Downtowner celebrates these legends in literature, music, visual and performing arts through its stripped-down design and curated artwork. Designed by California-based EDG Design, each guestroom represents artists through a variety of pop, edge and art styles. Minimalist rooms reflect playful sophistication through modern, loft-like spaces with polished concrete floors, white gallery walls and accents of hot pink against a bright, white palate.
The building’s common space centers around an open, window-filled atrium with a retractable glass roof. The atrium’s focal point is a painted floor depicting the narrow pool that once existed on The Downtowner’s base level.
“Before and during our construction process with The Downtowner, we’ve felt so embraced by the Saratoga community,” Rob Blood, CEO of Lark Hotels, said in a statement. “We hope this renovation adds to the incredible culture of downtown Saratoga Springs, and more importantly, to celebrate the area’s existing art and music scene.”
Hotel amenities include a daily, curated small plates breakfast spread; afternoon treats; Lather bath amenities; hospitality stations with coffee, tea and water; 24-hour front desk and concierge service; and room essentials like wine glasses, corkscrews, irons and hairdryers.