In 1929, this building in the heart of Chattanooga’s historic Southside neighborhood was a YMCA. With 59 dormitories, it provided an inexpensive place to stay for working men that rode trains into the city. More than that, it was a community hub, hosting social events and sock hops for the residents. When the team at Common House scoped out the property for their next location, it was a perfect fit—paying homage to its beginnings while bringing it up to speed for modern life.
Common House is a modern social club, a place for people to gather over food, drink, and experiences. It’s a “curated third space”—there’s a restaurant, co-working space, rooftop lounge, and a calendar of events, from live music to panel discussions and more. As a co-working space, members can rely on meeting spaces, coffee on tap, childcare, speedy wifi, a fitness studio, a concierge…the perks are endless. And for members and non-members alike, seven beautifully appointed hotel rooms are available to stay.
Common House Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer Derek Sieg teamed up with Tennessee-based firms Pfeffer Torode Architecture and Studio BOCA to create a space that reflected the history of the building, restoring the Italianate architecture to its former glory while bringing a modern flair to the interiors. “We determined that a journey through the building should have hints of a journey through Italy, beginning in the Italian Alps on the first floor, and moving south towards the sunny Mediterranean coast as you move up through the building’s four floors,” Studio BOCA said in a press release. They chose decor that could stand hand in hand with the building’s original architecture, woodwork, and tilework in both style and functionality, in a palette of sage, saddle leather, muted terracotta, and golden yellow. “Every corner was considered, from the smallest millwork detail, to the experience as you move through the halls,” Pfeffer Torode adds. “Our hope was that, through this careful design process, we were able to continue the story of this place in a way that is beautiful, meaningful, and lasting for everyone who calls Common House home.”
