Why it matters: As New Orleans continues to evolve, it’s essential to spotlight the local firms driving architectural innovation and sustainable development. This week, we sit down with Miriam Salas, Partner at Campo Architecture & Interior Design, to discuss their impact on the city and beyond.
The Big Picture
Campo Architecture & Interior Design is renowned for converting vacant or blighted high-rise buildings into vibrant hotels. With 18 active projects nationwide, Miriam Salas and her team are setting new standards in hospitality design.
“Our niche consists of usually converting vacant or blighted high-rise buildings and converting them into hotels.”
The Local Impact
Despite their national presence, Campo Architecture maintains a strong connection to New Orleans. The firm was founded by Jon Campo, a Baton Rouge native and LSU alumnus, who aimed to establish a significant practice in New Orleans. Today, they operate in two primary markets: hospitality and healthcare, with a notable focus on hospitality due to its dynamic nature.
“We like to live in New Orleans. We like to live in New Orleans.”
Challenges and Opportunities
Operating in New Orleans comes with its set of challenges, particularly concerning the city’s red tape and financing difficulties for projects. Miriam candidly shares her experiences, including the struggles and triumphs of navigating these hurdles.
“Banking all of your projects in one industry sometimes can be scary, although people come up to us because we are the experts.”
In-Depth with Miriam Salas
KW New Orleans: How many projects are you currently handling?
Miriam Salas: We have 18 amazing hotel projects across the country.
KW New Orleans: Tell us about your presence in New Orleans.
Miriam Salas: While we do have a small body of work in New Orleans, it’s not our primary focus. However, our firm’s headquarters is here, and we have completed notable projects like The Troubadour Hotel and The Eliza Jane.
KW New Orleans: How do you manage the complexities of working in New Orleans?
Miriam Salas: It’s a challenge. After Katrina, we even opened a second office in Las Vegas as a backup. But New Orleans remains our home, and we continue to push through the red tape because we love this city.
Future Prospects
Campo Architecture is not just about completing projects; it’s about transforming spaces and creating unique experiences. The firm’s dedication to adaptive reuse and integrating historical elements into modern designs sets them apart.
KW New Orleans: What trends are you seeing in hotel design post-COVID?
Miriam Salas: There’s a significant shift towards unique, experience-driven properties. People are looking for lifestyle hotels that offer something beyond the typical stay. We’re also seeing a rise in soft branding, where independent hotels become part of collections like Autograph or Tribute by Marriott.
Call to Action
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