Carnall Hall sits on the lawn of Old Main at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. Built in 1905, it has become an architectural cornerstone of Razorback tradition. It began as an all-girl’s dormitory, later evolved into a fraternity house in 1967 and by 1982 was revamped into classrooms. Despite the distinction of being in the National Registry of Historic Spaces, it narrowly escaped demolition in 2001, when it was saved by an Arkansas State Tourism grant, renovated, and reopened as a hotel in 2003.

By 2016, a refresh was desperately needed. An update and renovation of the Inn at Carnall Hall was begun. Taggart Architects was hired to spearhead the project alongside Charlestown Hotels—a hotel management company specializing in adaptive reuse—to rejuvenate the inn to the grandeur it deserved while paying homage to its original character. James Meyer, Project Architect, and Meredith Davies Spray, Senior Designer led the Taggart team.

According to Meredith, they started with the marketing team to develop the program. “It was wonderful to be involved so early generating ideas. It meant that I was able to establish clarity on the concept…develop a fresh take on historic notes.” Because the space would be a combination hotel, wedding and party venue, and restaurant, durability would be essential. “All our FFE would have to deliver a long lifespan.” Lucy Beth Owen was the representative from ImageWorks who Meredith brought in as a furniture consultant. “Specifying a high-end hospitality grade of interiors on limited monies could have been an issue.

Partnering with ImageWorks gave us the knowledge, products, and services we needed to meet the aesthetics and budget.” The restaurant and lobby posed unique challenges. As the demolition began, it became apparent the historic paneling had rotted.

“The millwork team from CDI, Custom Millwork, gave us quite an education on decomposition and margins needed to salvage what was left.” Custom table tops were built. The original hardwood oak from the Matron’s suite was repurposed as the bar counter top.

Artwork was commissioned with photographer, Todd Johnson featuring detailed photography of many of the architectural elements on the U of A campus. “Todd’s work was placed throughout the public space in the newly renovated restaurant, “Ella’s Table”. This was a brilliant and personal way to “tip our hat” to the history of the structures on campus.”

Today, The Inn at Carnall Hall is a boutique hotel, beautifully restored, rich in history yet modern in its appeal. Saved, restored, refreshed. Some refer to the Inn as the University’s “Front Porch” …hosting the next generation of memory makers.
General Contractor: CDI