A High Watermark for Baton Rouge

Storytelling and hospitality: two instincts so deeply rooted in the heart of Louisiana culture that they might as well be written into the law. Just a few years ago, no one might have guessed that the old Louisiana National Bank building on the corner of 3^rd and Convention was the perfect medium to combine these two Southern comforts, but when the Wampold Companies took over and opened the doors to the Watermark in late 2016, all that changed.

The revitalization of the twelve-story building—the city's first “high rise” skyscraper—echoes the renaissance that's pushed through downtown Baton Rouge in the past decade. But forging ahead into the future of hospitality doesn't mean forgetting the past. In fact, the Watermark takes the opposite approach.

Lead architect Greg Lacour and designer Douglas Detiveaux both cite the importance of history and storytelling in the building's development, and it shows in the finished product. The team was determined to reach beyond the usual surface aesthetics and use the site's past to imbue its current incarnation with a spark that would allow a meaningful connection with visitors. Drawing on its legacy as a center of state commerce as well as on architectural elements already present in the building, designers blended the process of preservation with the process of creation.

The result is that the transition from historic bank to government office warren to boutique hotel seems not only acceptable but somehow natural. Carved Greek Revival marble frames a lenticular art installation marrying historical portraiture and optical illusion. Enormous mid century bas-reliefs depict scenes of Louisiana industry while overlooking service of Southern cuisine with a flair. Luxury suites enjoy both contemporary regional artwork and the same stunning view of the Mississippi River the building has commanded since its construction in 1927. Everywhere you turn, artistic innovation complements tradition to create a space that is wholly unique yet wholly true to itself.

The Watermark, Wampold's addition to Marriott’s Autograph Collection, furnishes this extraordinary style with a host of modern amenities and conveniences, including bank vaults & depositories converted into meeting and event space with available catering, high-speed WiFi, a fitness center, and two on-site eateries, The Gregory and Milford's on Third. Indulging in a stay at the Watermark is sure to be an unforgettable experience, whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, or just stepping out for a local night on the town.