Vogue recently highlighted a group of new openings that reflect fresh thinking in design and hospitality in Savannah. Municipal Grand was included in that round-up, which placed us alongside a selection of hotels and creative businesses chosen for their distinct approach and sense of place. The feature noted how our conversion of a 1960s bank building brought something different to downtown Savannah, and it gave us the chance to share more about the story behind the project.

A building with history

The structure began life in 1961 as the First Federal Savings and Loan Association building. For decades it held a prominent spot at the corner of Broughton Street and Abercorn Street. The height and shape of the building made it a recognisable part of the area long before its reinvention as a hotel.

When Midnight Auteur and AAmp Studio began early discussions, the goal was to work with the character of the original structure rather than overwrite it. Its midcentury outline, materials and proportions set the foundation for everything that came after.

The shift from bank to hotel

Repurposing a former bank into a boutique hotel is not a simple adaptation. The ground floor layout had to change entirely. What was once a straightforward path to a front desk is now a lively all-day restaurant and bar with the reception tucked to one side. The focus moved from formality to ease, encouraging guests to settle in rather than pass through.

This stood out in the Vogue feature because it offers something different from the classic lobby model. The ground floor feels active and social throughout the day, which shapes the tone of the entire stay.

Keeping the midcentury spirit

The feature also recognised how the rooms and shared areas draw on the building’s midcentury roots. Clean lines, warm tones and careful material choices keep the design linked to the original era without feeling stuck in it.

One detail that caught Vogue’s attention was the generous storage in the rooms. It reflects the scale and style of the period but remains practical for modern travel. Small choices like this add comfort without losing the building’s identity.

The design approach

AAmp Studio worked closely with Midnight Auteur to find a balance between respect for the original architecture and a natural welcome for guests. That balance can be seen throughout the building, from the restored structural features to the relaxed pace of the restaurant and bar.

Every stage of the redevelopment considered how people would actually use the spaces. The intention was to keep the strong midcentury character visible while creating a hotel that feels open, easy and grounded in real life.

Visit for yourself

The best way to understand the building is to experience it. The restaurant and bar on the ground floor show how the new layout changes the feel of the original structure, and the rooms reveal the care taken with the midcentury cues.

We have added a short summary of the Vogue recognition on our press page. You can read that for a quick overview, or visit to see how the hotel has taken shape.