In the charming village of Ada, Michigan, where the Thornapple and Grand River meet, Ada Hotel perfectly reflects the storied community’s vision to redevelop and enrich the lives of its residents while preserving its historic legacy. Since the late 1800s, the hotel has been a gathering place for community members and visitors alike. Debuting its grand re-opening in 2024, Ada Hotel has been reimagined to seamlessly blend its historic character with inviting amenities spaces and contemporary hospitality design that redefines the guest experience on every floor. With interior architecture envisioned by OTJ Architects and fenestration installation by Superior Glass Co., the hotel offers elevated accommodations—from elegant suites and modern comforts to inviting amenities and design-forward bifold glass doors.
Photo courtesy of Ada Hotel
Merging Historic and Contemporary Design Elements
A contemporary reflection of its small-town background, the Ada Hotel was designed to integrate with the newly developed pedestrian-friendly scene. Boasting 36 family-friendly rooms and suites, the 38,000 SF destination offers a centralized location where guests can easily explore the town’s culinary and entertainment offerings. The hotel’s construction was completed by First Companies Inc with base building architecture by Dixon Architecture that seamlessly bridges past and present, honoring the town’s cultural heritage while embracing modern hospitality comforts. A design philosophy that extends to the vibrant amenities—from the lively Post Tavern and soon-to-open Lark Wine Bar on the first floor, to the bright and airy Rix Restaurant terrace on the third level.
Photo courtesy of Ada Hotel
Enhancing the Guest Stay—From Bottom to Top
Upon entry, guests are welcomed into a bright, open lobby with triple-height ceilings and sculptural staircases leading to the second and third floors. Elegant leather sofas and live greenery offer a refined communal space for lounging or socializing. Warm wood and leather accents, curated local artwork, and textures inspired by Ada’s natural riverside environment create an inviting yet visually striking ambiance. Large walls of windows, including the bifold glass doors on the third floor, provide natural lighting to create a bright welcoming interior. From there, guests are treated to an array of amenities, including an exercise center, fitness suites, and three enticing on-site dining destinations that cater to various cravings and ambiances.
Front-Row Seats to River Views at the Post Tavern
Directly accessible from the lobby, the Post Tavern offers an atmosphere that is both elegant and relaxed, paying homage to the original Ada Training Post of the late 1800s. The 110-seat pub features a sleek, curved bar accented with rich wood and elegant bar stools that invite guests to linger, socialize, and explore the vast drinks menu. Artistic elements like the intricate mosaic tile and wall coverings referencing local Native American patterns honor the area’s heritage while adding a layer of storytelling to the design. Three NanaWall bifold glass doors, specified as windows, invite natural light and frame front-row views of the river and bustling streetscape. The 8-foot-tall systems deliver 10-foot-wide openings that recreate the feel of eating al fresco—all while attracting curious passersby.
“There have been so many comments on the sleek, modern look of the NanaWall systems,” says Superior Glass Co. “The hotel is truly a work of art, and it can’t be overstated how large a role NanaWall has to play in that.”
The Rix—A Must-See Restaurant Amenity
Perched on the third floor with prime views of the village and river, the Rix Restaurant, named after Ada’s Founder Rix Robinson, offers an upscale, sophisticated dining destination for casual dinners or private events. Reflecting the elegant design program from the Post Tavern, the 130-seat restaurant features expansive seating options, from intimate dining indoors to refreshing open-air seating on the outdoor terrace. Three NanaWall ADA-compliant bifold glass doors connect the indoor and outdoor spaces and offer separation when needed, with uninterrupted egress through specified swing doors. The 9-foot-tall systems deliver 17-foot-wide openings with double glazed panels for optimal weather protection and comfort during winter months.
“At Rix restaurant, the NanaWall systems elevate the functionality of the space by seamlessly blending the indoors and the terrace,” says Ada Hotel management. “These doors create a versatile space that feels larger, more open, and inviting.”
Private Dining Room and Future Amenities
Nestled within the refined atmosphere of The Rix, a private dining room offers the ideal setting for intimate gatherings and celebrations. The versatile room is segmented with a 21-foot-wide NanaWall stacking glass wall with specialized glazing and stylistic divided lites for added privacy. Specified with no floor track, the system achieves ADA compliance and seamless flow between spaces with a pair of swing doors in the middle that facilitate egress when the system is closed. For this space, the design features a cozy vibe with light, neutral tones, a convenient fireplace, warm pendant lighting, and a TV monitor when needed. In addition to the Rix Restaurant and the Post Tavern, the soon-to-open Lark Wine Bar will offer patrons a laid-back dining atmosphere complete with three additional floor-to-ceiling folding glass door systems.
Bifold Glass Doors Elevate ROI-Boosting Hospitality Design
Specified across four key amenities areas, the ten NanaWall systems ensure that whether guests are toasting at the Post Tavern or savoring a meal at The Rix, they are never far from the charm of Ada’s picturesque surroundings. By optimizing spaces for private events, seasonal dining, and casual gatherings, the hotel maximizes revenue potential year-round. The energy-efficient bifold glass doors ensure guests remain connected to the beauty of Ada’s small town throughout the seasons, while simultaneously enhancing the property’s visual appeal, functionality, and overall operational efficiency.
“The NanaWall systems’ simple and user-friendly design ensures a quick transition, enabling staff to adapt efficiently to weather conditions and customer preferences, and ultimately improving the guest experience,” says Ada Hotel. “This flexibility supports year-round functionality and elevates the restaurant’s ambiance and service offerings.”
Final Thoughts
A landmark on its own, Ada Hotel delivers a carefully crafted experience with masterful hospitality design that reflects the storied character of Ada Village. Winner of the 2024 NanaAward for Best Hospitality Design, the hotel showcases how adaptable spaces can elevate guest experience while driving ROI. With ten NanaWall systems opening key amenity spaces, guests enjoy a seamless transition between indoors and out, enhancing the dining atmosphere and the hotel’s operational flexibility. From locally inspired artwork at The Post Tavern to the indoor-outdoor spaces of The Rix Restaurant, every detail of the hotel celebrates the connection between people, spaces, and the surrounding community—a true celebration of Ada Village and its rich heritage.
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