Set in the epicenter of Atlanta’s historic stockyards and now-retired railway, Bellyard West Midtown Atlanta is the latest hospitality concept by global architecture, design and strategy firm NELSON Worldwide, and pays homage to the early 1900s, with thoughtfully designed moments that honor this time. Steps away from the city’s most notable shops, bars and restaurants, Bellyard is a gathering place for locals, business travelers and tourists to unwind and experience a genuine Atlanta stay.
NELSON Worldwide drew inspiration from the progressive expansion of Atlanta toward the west and the industrial-cool feeling that comes with part of that expansion. The result is a highly desirable hospitality destination with a clear sense of place.
“We take our cues from the place the hotel will occupy and build on the history while seeking to meet the client’s expectation for the experience they sought to create,” said Alex Campbell, AIA, LEED AP, regional design leader/studio leader/director at NELSON Worldwide, describing how the firm turns its inspiration into reality.
The boutique hotel offers various contemporary suites and guestrooms, an upscale railroad-inspired bar and lounge, a fitness center, a garden courtyard and a rooftop pool. Defined by modern and cozy design elements, each guest room includes charming moments that accentuate a feeling and sense of home.
“Previously known for its soap factory, stockyards, meatpacking plants and machinery, West Midtown houses several original buildings with gothic, industrial architecture that gives the neighborhood its charm,” Campbell said.
Accessories and artwork reminiscent of the local neighborhood are displayed to give off a restful and endearing atmosphere. For guests looking to work, relax or both, the hotel lobby was designed as a communal space to accommodate every traveler’s needs—providing guests with multiple meeting points for all types of occasions.
“We started with the brand first, defining the Bellyard experience rooted in the rich history of West Midtown and The Interlock—nodding to the stockyards with touches curated by local artisans,” Campbell said. “These local touches and carefully curated brand moments create a space where guests feel comfortable in a unique boutique setting they can’t get at any other hotel in Atlanta. The wood and steel materials, combined in a rich and sophisticated way, speak to the history in a subtle and up-to-date approach extending branded touchpoints through the entire guest experience.”
And, notably, the Draw Bar is a bar and lounge that has a playful take on modern bar food. Adjacent to the Draw Bar is a terrace that allows guests to connect with the energy of the streets and with passersby heading to their favorite dining or retail destinations. A closer look at the design within the space reveals a playful take on the modern bar with design hints that nod to luxury passenger trains during the golden age of travel.
“The Bellyard is designed for a truly authentic Atlanta experience, rich in the history of the West Midtown neighborhood with modern elegant touches and plenty of areas to relax and enjoy the vibe,” Campbell said.
