A cluster of five buildings in Missoula’s historic shopping center, the Mercantile had sat vacant for eight years as various developers attempted (and failed) to reinvent and pay homage to this beloved local landmark. We were asked to explore the potential for a mixed-use concept, salvaging the original Pharmacy Building as the architectural foundation for a new Residence Inn. Our plan integrated an interior mews—a modern staple for surviving Montana’s harsh winters—while the podium level features spaces for multiple retailers and F&B outlets.

Inspired by the site’s rich history as a center of both commerce and community, we curated salvaged materials from the deconstructed buildings, including heavy timber beams and columns, wood planks, tin ceilings and metal-clad window shutters, as well as a copper half-round canopy which was repaired and reoriented to halt further deterioration. Any original bricks too soft to remain in place were reinstalled as a gabion wall feature behind the reception desk, while cast iron radiators were reimagined into benches and guest room entry doors were outfitted with reclaimed wood accent paneling. We also partnered with local artists to express the site’s legacy of manufacturing and trade inside the mews, applying an asymmetric, dual-tone paint scheme that channels the independent spirit of Missoula throughout the hotel corridors.

The completed project was so well received by local Missoulans that a senior community member shed tears on opening day, touched by the thoughtful integration of the site’s storied history, as well as the vision to bring new life to this long-abandoned part of the city center.