When your project surface begins as a parking lot, there’s nowhere to go but up.
In Idaho’s capital city, at the base of the Boise foothills (as the locals refer to the foothills of the Rocky Mountains), stands downtown Boise—the city’s cultural heart. When Geronimo Hospitality Group searched for an area for its uniquely branded Hotel Renegade, the vibrancy of this area was the precise reason it was selected.
“The location on Grove Street places Hotel Renegade in close proximity to the city's best dining, shopping and entertainment options, enhancing its appeal as a community hub,” said RoseAnn Haedt, Geronimo Hospitality Group’s director of public relations. Its appeal as a growing destination for business and leisure travelers only sweetened the deal. Construction broke ground in 2022, and the project was completed and opened in May 2024.
Modern and Historical
Locally based architectural firm CSHQA, whose experience in downtown Boise has spanned more than 135 years, was “instrumental” in bringing Hotel Renegade’s design vision to life, Haedt said. Their focus was on blending Boise’s historic aesthetic with upscale, modern elements.
“Prior to construction, the lot served as a surface parking lot, and [with this hotel], Boise’s downtown core has been extended,” said Jim Marsh, architect principal at CSHQA. “Hotel Renegade’s unique urban street façade, which blends modern with historical accents, draws attention to the main corner entrance of the hotel, making it an enticing venue for anyone visiting our city.”
Geronimo Hospitality Group created the Hotel Renegade brand specifically for Boise to reflect the individuality and character and history of the city, with a focus on a personalized, locally inspired guest experience, noted Haedt.
“We thoughtfully considered the location and the historic architecture on this block in downtown Boise,” explained Marsh. “The neighboring building, the Owyhee Plaza, was originally constructed as a hotel in 1910. The exterior façade treatment of the Renegade utilizes a marriage of traditional and modern building materials to provide a structure that is both modern and respects the area's original architecture.”
Along the street and second level, Marsh said the firm selected high-level materials such as stacked sandstone, rock veneer and stone tile accents. “The use of warm colors, rich materials and corner balconies work together to provide modulation to the building while providing a welcoming presence that exudes traditional charm.”
The rooftop cupola tower serves as a distinctive corner feature of the building's roofline and adds a unique element to the Boise skyline. In an area surrounded by natural beauty, it’s fitting that the rooftop bar offers patrons a relaxing space to enjoy beautiful views of the city and the surrounding area.
Rugged and Luxurious
The high-end, 122-key boutique hotel features rustic-meets-refined decor with high-end finishes; custom interiors blend rugged elements with luxury. Rooms range from 715-square-foot classic suites to the 1,313-square foot Pend d’Oreille Penthouse, which sleeps two guests but has ample space to entertain up to eight. Rustic dual-sided fireplaces, worn leather couches and copper soaking tubs are juxtaposed with refined amenities including sprawling spa-inspired bathrooms, Boca Terry robes, Hunter Labs bath products and high-end bed linens.
Now that the hotel is completed, CSHQA CEO Ryan D. Martin said that he is thrilled by witnessing the energy and activity in and around the project. “Seeing people relish every corner of this vibrant venue—from the Baraboo Supper Club and the charming hotel lobby with its cozy lobby bar to Blue Collar Coffee on the ground floor and the Highlander rooftop bar with its sweeping panoramic views that extend beyond the city—is a joy that never fades. Each space draws people into its unique ambiance and dynamic energy, activating the urban edge up to the skyline and beyond.”
Haedt said the project is a well-rounded experience that highlights Boise’s unique vibe. “Our team is proudest of how Hotel Renegade captures the spirit of Boise while setting a new standard in luxury.”
Location: Boise, Idaho
Opening: May 2024
Number of Rooms: 122
General Manager: Jussi Santa
Management Company: Geronimo Hospitality Group
Owner: Hendricks Commercial Properties
Website: www.hotelrenegade.com
This article was originally published in the January edition of Hotel Management magazine. Subscribe here.