Archer House River Inn - Restored 19th Century Style
Nestled in the historic river town of Northfield, the newly renovated Archer House River Inn has regained its prairie elegance while adding significantly to the town's main street appeal.
Online, August 12, 2011 (Newswire.com) - This travel season visitors can discover a quaint, boutique inn that lives up to its days of grandeur. Nestled in the historic river town of Northfield, the newly renovated Archer House River Inn has regained its prairie elegance while adding significantly to the town's main street appeal.
Built in 1877, the iconic French Second Empire building stands as the oldest hotel in Northfield today and is one of the longest continuously operating hotels in the state of Minnesota.
"I felt it was important to bring back the grace and romance of this storied inn," said Archer House General Manager Todd Byhre. "Part of the reward of this major renovation is how it gives back to the community and helps to revitalize the town." The Archer House has long served as an anchor to the downtown's historic district.
The Inn also includes several independently owned businesses, consisting of restaurants, a coffee shop, tearoom, music lounge, and distinct shops. "The reason people visit the Archer House is for the whole
experience," shared Byhre. Renovations began with the public spaces and basic infrastructure; then individual attention was given to the inn's charming 36 guest rooms and suites. The sub-contracted work was sourced locally.
Original features like tin ceilings and resurfaced claw foot tubs were restored in addition to selecting period-inspired colors, textile, lighting and furniture. "I think we have recaptured the magic that guests would have experienced back then," said Byhre. A few high-tech amenities were added to accommodate the modern traveler. "We mixed antique furniture with today's pieces for just the right feel," added Byhre.
"Todd had a terrific vision for amplifying the historic character for the Archer House, while introducing services and amenities expected by business and leisure travelers today," commented Chuck Paton, President of Rebound Hospitality.
The over one million dollar renovation project was initiated by Rebound Hospitality, part of Rebound Enterprises, an investment services and holding company in Northfield that specializes in manufacturing, real estate, hospitality and financial services.
"The inn is a tremendous community asset," said Brett Reese, Managing Principal of Rebound Hospitality. "When you think of Northfield, you think of the colleges, the nice downtown, the great school system, and you think of the Archer House, too. You find these places and you want to preserve them for the community."
Hayes Scriven, Executive Director of the Northfield Historical Society and Board Member of the Northfield Convention and Visitors Bureau commented, "To have a business owner, specifically a hotel owner, invest money in a historic property has a huge impact on Northfield. It just makes downtown Northfield more vibrant and active having all these people visiting and staying at the Archer House."