In order to adapt the structures to serve the hotel occupancy, a lightwell beginning at the third floor line and extending the full height of the building, has been cut into the structures. At the third floor, the roof will be developed as a landscaped roof garden. Most guestrooms either front on Penn Avenue, with outstanding views of the Pittsburgh skyline, or on French Street, overlooking the convention center.

The hotel entrance is positioned at the 945 bay of the building and marked by a new contemporary steel and glass canopy. Upon entering through the restored historic storefront facade, the lobby is a grand two-story space. In order to capitalize on the "loft-like" character of the space and the tall facade windows, guestrooms have unusually high ceilings that maximize the views and the natural light. The basement of the 945-47-49 portion of the building contains valet parking. The remaining space on the first floor not utilized by the hotel is an upscale restaurant.

The exterior work includes the comprehensive restoration and cleaning of all masonry and terra cotta surfaces to restore them to their original appearance. Windows have been replaced with new, energy efficient windows that achieve the same appearance, as the original windows, including glazed transom panels above the double hung sashes on the Penn Avenue side. The project has received approval of Historic Preservation Certification from the U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service.

This project will make a significant contribution to continued growth of the Cultural District and fulfill the need for more medium-priced hotel spaces in downtown Pittsburgh.