Downtown Suffolk landmark, former Elliott Hotel, will become modern apartments

SUFFOLK — A historic hotel property in downtown Suffolk will soon undergo a metamorphosis.

Suffolk Mayor Michael “Mike” D. Duman announced during the State of the City on May 16 that a team is tackling redevelopment of the former Elliott Hotel.

Opened in August 1925 during the heyday of Suffolk’s peanut industry, the eight-story building with a two-story base on the corner of Main and Market streets is a Colonial-Georgian Revival landmark. The building, which was converted into Suffolk Towers apartments in the 1980s, has deteriorated throughout the years. Following two separate fires in 2021, the building was left vacant.

Now, its planned restoration and renovation will breathe new life into the edifice while maintaining its historic character. Tymoff+Moss Architects and Commonwealth Preservation Group in Norfolk are teaming up for the project.

“They will be preserving the architectural integrity and charm of the building while converting the rooms into 45 luxury downtown loft apartments targeted toward young professionals,” Duman said.

The hotel’s original restored check-in desk, decorative plasterwork and terrazzo floors will stay intact along with hotel doors and details from its ballrooms. A freight elevator will be closed off, but its doors will be visible.

The ground floor will remain a commercial development including Baron’s Pub and Restaurant, which will be open during construction, he said.

Construction begins this summer and the project is anticipated to be completed in the fall of 2024.

“The historic rehabilitation of Suffolk Towers is a major private investment in our beautiful downtown,” Duman said. “Suffolk is eager to see this adaptive reuse project through to completion and hope it initiates further public and private investments in Downtown Suffolk.”

Sandra J. Pennecke, 757-652-5836, sandra.pennecke@insidebiz.com