With over 200 unique properties across the country and around the world, the Embassy Suites brand fills an upscale niche in Hilton Worldwide—one of the largest hospitality companies in the world. When Embassy decided to develop its next high-end hotel in one of downtown Louisville Kentucky’s historic landmark structures, they knew they needed a partner they could trust to live up to their high standards of excellence without compromising the integrity of the historic building. They turned to Salas O’Brien.

Our team’s mechanical and plumbing engineering services were part of a larger, 80-million-dollar project converting the former Hilliard Lyons Center into a stunning mixed-use space anchored by the new hotel—but this ambitious undertaking wasn’t the building’s first repurposing. The structure was built in 1907 and originally housed the Stewart’s Dry Goods Company. Since then it has been home to various retail, corporate, and investment entities while maintaining its historic charm, many original features, and its status as a landmark on the National Register of Historic Places.

The hotel is within walking distance of the Kentucky International Convention Center, a premier conference venue, as well as the Ohio River waterfront, with its Belle of Louisville historic riverboat experience, Louisville Slugger Field, and Muhammad Ali Center—making it an ideal hospitality venue for both business and recreational visits to Louisville.

Salas O’Brien’s work on this beautiful 304-suite hotel enabled a seamless integration of original historic elements with Embassy’s intimate, chic styling. The result is a truly memorable oasis in the heart of downtown Louisville.