I was somewhat disappointed to hear that the first new hotel announced for downtown DIDN'T involve the former Mayo Hotel property. Although the Atlas Life Courtyard will be nice, I think the Mayo should also be converted to a full-service hotel, especially considering its proximity to our convention facilities and new arena.
If any of you have stayed at the Skirvin Hilton in downtown OKC...that is the definition of class. A BEAUTIFUL historic building turned into a first-rate accomodation.
The Mayo and Hilton should team up on this right away. If the new ballpark plans are announced for downtown, I would think this could happen.
Correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe that part of the Mayo WILL (already is being converted) be a hotel, with the remainder of the building as apartments.
I stayed at the Skrivin this weekend, enjoyed the Rangers/White Sox game. I wondered about the Mayo as well. Can it be in any worse shape than the Skirvin was? maybe so, but I would hope someone would do something with the Mayo. The Skirvin was very nice, and close to everything. And it was the most affordable hotel downtown!
If I remember correctly, one of the previous owners of the Mayo gutted most of its original fixtures...stuff that's easy to take down, but hard to put back. (Dont' know if the stuff was sold or trashed.) Still, the Mayo retains a lot of elegance. It's coming along and I can't wait to see it when they're done!
quote:
Originally posted by bacjz00
I was somewhat disappointed to hear that the first new hotel announced for downtown DIDN'T involve the former Mayo Hotel property. Although the Atlas Life Courtyard will be nice, I think the Mayo should also be converted to a full-service hotel, especially considering its proximity to our convention facilities and new arena.
If any of you have stayed at the Skirvin Hilton in downtown OKC...that is the definition of class. A BEAUTIFUL historic building turned into a first-rate accomodation.
The Mayo and Hilton should team up on this right away. If the new ballpark plans are announced for downtown, I would think this could happen.
The Skirvin remodel was paid for 50% by taxpayers. The Mayo is getting closer to 5%. The Mayo hotel/lofts announcement predates the atlas life announcement by close to a year, but the Mayo is moving much slower (partially since the owners are doing it largely out of pocket)
Yes the Mayo Hotel does have a Hotel component in it. "sounds ironic to say that lol"[:P]
Remember being taken to the Mayo for lunch when I first moved over here from Northwest Arkansas in 1972. I was blown away with the elegance and old grace of the place. Ate there several times after that. Miss it.
http://www.mayolofts.com/
For the loft part seems to be down will call and see whats going on with that later.
http://www.mayohotel.com/
For the hotel doesn't seem to be currently maintained though.
Hope nothing have happened to these projects to derail them that would be a shame.
quote:
Originally posted by godboko71
http://www.mayolofts.com/
For the loft part seems to be down will call and see whats going on with that later.
http://www.mayohotel.com/
For the hotel doesn't seem to be currently maintained though.
Hope nothing have happened to these projects to derail them that would be a shame.
The mayo lofts are a different building.
No they where to be the upper floors of the Mayo Hotel, half where to be furnished and leased to businesses, the other half was going to be unfurnished and leased to the public.
Either way, they where calling there lofts the Mayo Lofts when hey where promoting it, was even linked on the hotel site before.
Anyway hopefully I can get in contact with someone Monday to get more info. The last time I called in September they had just started construction even though there where due to lease and open all the lofts that summer. The reason I called then was because that had not updated the hotel or the loft site with more info and I was never contacted about a lease (Called to be put on there list when they became available.)
The Mayo Hotel is still going to have both hotel and living in it.
http://www.tulsaworld.com/business/article.aspx?articleID=20080305_5_E1_hrpbR11850
The Mayo Lofts, not sure whats going on with that.
http://www.mayo420.com/index.html
quote:
Originally posted by godboko71
No they where to be the upper floors of the Mayo Hotel, half where to be furnished and leased to businesses, the other half was going to be unfurnished and leased to the public.
Either way, they where calling there lofts the Mayo Lofts when hey where promoting it, was even linked on the hotel site before.
Anyway hopefully I can get in contact with someone Monday to get more info. The last time I called in September they had just started construction even though there where due to lease and open all the lofts that summer. The reason I called then was because that had not updated the hotel or the loft site with more info and I was never contacted about a lease (Called to be put on there list when they became available.)
There may be some confusion here.
Both the Mayo Building and the Mayo Hotel are getting lofts with 2025 money. The Mayo Hotel will add about 100 hotel rooms with the lofts. The Mayo building is the tan brick building on the SW corner of 5th and Main, the Mayo Hotel is the red brick building a block west of the Mayo Building at 5th and Cheyenne.
You can see both buildings in this photo, the tan building with the "Mayo" sign on the corner of the building is the Mayo Building, the Mayo Hotel is the taller red brick building in the background that says "Mayo" on the roof.
(http://www.loopnet.com/Attachments/7/1/9/71961931-ED66-4027-B58B-9ADA07692A58.JPG)
Very familiar with both buildings lived here my whole life. I also know that the mayo hotels lofts where being called the Mayo Lofts, maybe they changed there mind and thats why the domain no longer works that I won't know until Monday.
One reason I know that the mayo lofts I am thinking of (and the link I gave used to be a site for) are in the hotel as one of the amenities of the lofts in the hotel was you could use the hotels room and other guest services.
Either way I am calling Monday to see if the lofts in the hotel are still under construction and on schedule for completion. Also want to see if they are still going to be leasing for $1-$2 a Sq.
Sorry for any confusion I may have made.
The spokesperson for the mayo hotel said recently they were waiting on some permits. I saw one permit on their door dated late march so maybe they have them by now...
I have an inside source at the Mayo Hotel - it will have hotel rooms AND apartment/lofts that will be available for lease only for a certain number of years, then they can be sold. All the upper floors have been completely busted open, so there is a lot of work left to do. They are currently working on one of the apartment model units...The lower floors (not sure how many) will have offices. The whole building was stripped bare. I've seen photos of the ballroom on the top floor in it's current state, pretty sad. If I remember correctly, it's being remodeled, though I doubt finances will ever allow it to be as grand as it once was.
quote:
There may be some confusion here.
...The Mayo building is the tan brick building on the SW corner of 5th and Main...
(http://thisdistractedglobe.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/10/North%20By%20Northwest%20Hitchcock%20Cary%20Grant%20pic%202.jpg)
At the school board meeting lastnight, it was approved for East Central to have their prom there. So they apparently have something going on there already.
quote:
Originally posted by custosnox
At the school board meeting lastnight, it was approved for East Central to have their prom there. So they apparently have something going on there already.
Which "there?"
Mayo Hotel has had special events for years on the ground floor.
quote:
Originally posted by tulsa1603
I have an inside source at the Mayo Hotel - it will have hotel rooms AND apartment/lofts that will be available for lease only for a certain number of years, then they can be sold. All the upper floors have been completely busted open, so there is a lot of work left to do. They are currently working on one of the apartment model units...The lower floors (not sure how many) will have offices. The whole building was stripped bare. I've seen photos of the ballroom on the top floor in it's current state, pretty sad. If I remember correctly, it's being remodeled, though I doubt finances will ever allow it to be as grand as it once was.
Naaa, that ornamental work is just plaster and paint. Any old "construction worker" can reproduce it, cast it, then paint it. Doesn't take a rocket scientist, or a lot of money, anyone can do it. They can probably make it better than it was. I have noticed in different pics that it had very different paint schemes during different times. Once it was mostly a dark color with gold on the highlights, then it was mostly a cream with gold.
be you can get a lot of that exact plasterwork from places like. "Decorators Supply Corp" in Chicago. They have brought back a lot of the old molds and are making them again.
http://www.decoratorssupply.com/store/main.aspx?p=CATEGORYBody&c=APCOWO&style=griffin
Give me a bit of time and I bet I could find the same stuff that is in the Mayo, and it doesn't cost much either.
(http://img139.imageshack.us/img139/9230/cbcrystalballroomsd4.jpg)
(http://img89.imageshack.us/img89/2880/mayocrystalballroomhf1.jpg)
(http://img139.imageshack.us/img139/910/cb06interiorcrystalballvw9.jpg)
quote:
Originally posted by tulsa1603
I have an inside source at the Mayo Hotel - it will have hotel rooms AND apartment/lofts that will be available for lease only for a certain number of years, then they can be sold. All the upper floors have been completely busted open, so there is a lot of work left to do. They are currently working on one of the apartment model units...The lower floors (not sure how many) will have offices. The whole building was stripped bare. I've seen photos of the ballroom on the top floor in it's current state, pretty sad. If I remember correctly, it's being remodeled, though I doubt finances will ever allow it to be as grand as it once was.
So your inside source what they (Mayo Hotels people) said verbatim on Tulsa Times on OETA.
quote:
Originally posted by TheArtist
quote:
Originally posted by tulsa1603
I have an inside source at the Mayo Hotel - it will have hotel rooms AND apartment/lofts that will be available for lease only for a certain number of years, then they can be sold. All the upper floors have been completely busted open, so there is a lot of work left to do. They are currently working on one of the apartment model units...The lower floors (not sure how many) will have offices. The whole building was stripped bare. I've seen photos of the ballroom on the top floor in it's current state, pretty sad. If I remember correctly, it's being remodeled, though I doubt finances will ever allow it to be as grand as it once was.
Naaa, that ornamental work is just plaster and paint. Any old mexican can reproduce it, cast it, then paint it. Doesn't take a rocket scientist, or a lot of money, anyone can do it. They can probably make it better than it was. I have noticed in different pics that it had very different paint schemes during different times. Once it was mostly a dark color with gold on the highlights, then it was mostly a cream with gold.
I be you can get a lot of that exact plasterwork from places like. "Decorators Supply Corp" in Chicago. They have brought back a lot of the old molds and are making them again.
http://www.decoratorssupply.com/store/main.aspx?p=CATEGORYBody&c=APCOWO&style=griffin
Give me a bit of time and I bet I could find the same stuff that is in the Mayo, and it doesn't cost much either.
Any old mexican?
quote:
Originally posted by sgrizzle
quote:
Originally posted by custosnox
At the school board meeting lastnight, it was approved for East Central to have their prom there. So they apparently have something going on there already.
Which "there?"
Mayo Hotel has had special events for years on the ground floor.
Ya know, good question. lol I wasn't paying enough attention (I really need to learn to get more sleep on sunday nights). I'll look at the agenda when I get home and let you know.
quote:
Originally posted by sgrizzle
quote:
Originally posted by TheArtist
quote:
Originally posted by tulsa1603
I have an inside source at the Mayo Hotel - it will have hotel rooms AND apartment/lofts that will be available for lease only for a certain number of years, then they can be sold. All the upper floors have been completely busted open, so there is a lot of work left to do. They are currently working on one of the apartment model units...The lower floors (not sure how many) will have offices. The whole building was stripped bare. I've seen photos of the ballroom on the top floor in it's current state, pretty sad. If I remember correctly, it's being remodeled, though I doubt finances will ever allow it to be as grand as it once was.
Naaa, that ornamental work is just plaster and paint. Any old mexican can reproduce it, cast it, then paint it. Doesn't take a rocket scientist, or a lot of money, anyone can do it. They can probably make it better than it was. I have noticed in different pics that it had very different paint schemes during different times. Once it was mostly a dark color with gold on the highlights, then it was mostly a cream with gold.
I be you can get a lot of that exact plasterwork from places like. "Decorators Supply Corp" in Chicago. They have brought back a lot of the old molds and are making them again.
http://www.decoratorssupply.com/store/main.aspx?p=CATEGORYBody&c=APCOWO&style=griffin
Give me a bit of time and I bet I could find the same stuff that is in the Mayo, and it doesn't cost much either.
Any old mexican?
Your right, I changed it. Its just that they are always the ones who do that kind of stuff on the job sites I am on and they do great work.
They have a mockup apartment nearly complete. I got to tour it today. It was a 1/1 version, they will have some that are 2/2, and some of them will have two levels, which I think would be cool. It definitely feels like an apartment...obviously not spending a ton on finishes, though they have granite countertops, nicer than average stainless appliances, etc., so it could be worse. Unfortunately, my understanding is that they won't have the whole thing ready for occupancy until fall 2009. 76 apartments, 100 hotel rooms. One thing that surprised me was that (at least in the mockup unit) the views aren't that great, and there wasn't a lot of glass, anyway - not much they can do about that I guess. This one faced west, so you could see the arena if you got at the right angle, but there was definitely something lacking there. I'd want to go on a higher floor, maybe something on a corner. These will be rental for the first 6-7 years then they can be sold. That's all I found out. The rest of the floor this mock up is on is a shell, basically. The elevators don't work yet, either. Anyway, it's an interesting project, and I look forward to seeing it completed.
quote:
Originally posted by tulsa1603
They have a mockup apartment nearly complete. I got to tour it today. It was a 1/1 version, they will have some that are 2/2, and some of them will have two levels, which I think would be cool. It definitely feels like an apartment...obviously not spending a ton on finishes, though they have granite countertops, nicer than average stainless appliances, etc., so it could be worse. Unfortunately, my understanding is that they won't have the whole thing ready for occupancy until fall 2009. 76 apartments, 100 hotel rooms. One thing that surprised me was that (at least in the mockup unit) the views aren't that great, and there wasn't a lot of glass, anyway - not much they can do about that I guess. This one faced west, so you could see the arena if you got at the right angle, but there was definitely something lacking there. I'd want to go on a higher floor, maybe something on a corner. These will be rental for the first 6-7 years then they can be sold. That's all I found out. The rest of the floor this mock up is on is a shell, basically. The elevators don't work yet, either. Anyway, it's an interesting project, and I look forward to seeing it completed.
So they are only two and a half years behind schedule that is not bad at all really.
Funding process completes in two weeks, then major construction begins.
V2025 passed, construction will begin soon. Cranes will fill the air!
Tax revenues are starting to come in construction will begin soon!
Plans have been released, construction will begin soon!
Demolition work has started, construction will begin soon!
- - -
Seriously, I've become a hopeful pessimist when it comes to development in Tulsa. I hope it happens, but I try damn hard not to get my hopes up until it actually does. I worked in the OneOK with an office facing the Mayo in 2005-6 and it was almost ready to start.
quote:
Originally posted by cannon_fodder
V2025 passed, construction will begin soon. Cranes will fill the air!
Tax revenues are starting to come in construction will begin soon!
Plans have been released, construction will begin soon!
Demolition work has started, construction will begin soon!
- - -
Seriously, I've become a hopeful pessimist when it comes to development in Tulsa. I hope it happens, but I try damn hard not to get my hopes up until it actually does. I worked in the OneOK with an office facing the Mayo in 2005-6 and it was almost ready to start.
I have just learned that it takes a loooot longer than I would like. Plus remember that its about 1 out of 6 developments you hear about which actually come to fruition. So take your expectations divide them by 6 then add a lot of time to whats left and you will have a more realistic view of whats going on.[:D]
BE CALM BE CALM it is coming soon .....THE MAYO HOTEL is currently being renovated into Hotel and Loft apartments. The first Mock-up Loft has been completed and it is absolutely beautiful!!! When completed The Mayo Hotel will have 76 luxury lofts and 100 hotel rooms. All the lofts will have access to all the amenities of the hotel ie: valet, room service, laundry service, maid service, workout space, etc...
The lofts and hotel rooms have the most amazing view of BOK arena, and the river! There will be a restaurant, bar, coffee shop (Topeca), etc...
The hotel will be a boutique hotel and will not be managed under a flag ie: Hilton. The Crystal Ballroom (16th and 17th floor) will be completely renovated to what it looked like back in the day. The grand stair case will be put back where it was year ago in the Lobby!
The entire project is 52 million and when completed will be the PLACE TO BE!
Can't wait! I used to know someone that had several of the original plaster sculptures that existed in the old hotel. He had pictures too.
Made me wonder why it ever closed down.
macke, thank you very much. From everything I have heard it will be a top notch program and a wonderful addition to a growing list of downtown projects. Pardon my angst, but the project has been oversold before so, no pressure! [:)]
I don't need a hard date, but when will occupancy on the lofts and/or hotel start and what is the estimated time frame on the ballroom? Just looking for a fall/2009 or whatever.
Actually they will be leased for 5 yrs and after 5 yrs. sold as condos. If you did not go on the upper floors then of course there were no GREAT view. Go on the lower floors of most building and there are worse views. I have seen the lofts and they looked pure quality. I mean wow they are already spending $52 mil. You go restore an old building and find the funding to do so. Better that something is being done to The Mayo Hotel than just left empty forever.
The entire project is set to be finished October 2009 this includes the Crystal Ballroom.
I had my high school Senior Prom in the Crystal Ballroom at the Mayo Hotel.
quote:
Originally posted by macke
The entire project is set to be finished October 2009 this includes the Crystal Ballroom.
Wow I need to adjust my monitor...I swear I just read that the Mayo Hotel will be re-opened in 18 months with 100 rooms available. Is this even possible?? If it happens...great...but I remain skeptical.
Curious as to why the hotel will not be operated by a flag, (not suggesting that is necessarily a bad thing, just not what I had originally heard). There are lots of independent, successful hoteliers out there.
quote:
Originally posted by bacjz00
quote:
Originally posted by macke
The entire project is set to be finished October 2009 this includes the Crystal Ballroom.
Wow I need to adjust my monitor...I swear I just read that the Mayo Hotel will be re-opened in 18 months with 100 rooms available. Is this even possible?? If it happens...great...but I remain skeptical.
That's the same time period the Atlas hotel gave.
Building permits issued:
"Mayo Hotel , 115 W. Fifth St., interior alterations, $9.5 million; apartments, $6 million; ballroom, $2.5 million; roof and exterior wall repair, $250,000."
http://www.tulsaworld.com/business/article.aspx?subjectID=32&articleID=20080511_46_E2_hComme343616
(http://www.cubroundtable.com/assets/racetoscouting/And-they-re%20off-racing-logo.jpg)
(http://www.st-johns.org.uk/news/jnrsports/strt50.jpg)
KOTV reports construction has started
http://www.newson6.com/Global/story.asp?S=8338024&nav=menu682_2
The progress on the Mayo is going surprisingly fast. I work in the ONEOK building and have a direct view into the Mayo. It appears as though many interior walls are being constructed. Also, I heard from the owner that construction would be complete by Nov 2009!
Thats always one of the tricky things about construction. Getting it going, can take forever, "gosh will it ever get started or done?" then the basic structure and walls seem to appear over night, "wow this will be done in no time". Then things bog back down with the finish work especially when the old fall behind domino effect starts..."well this guy fell behind on his schedule so you can start on the tile, trim, paint, fixtures or whatever it is, on this date.... What? your next available time is When!?" or "dang this trim and little finish stuff is costing more than the walls!? Umm, hello... mr artist, due to unforseen budgeting problems we are gonna have to kind of put a hold on the artwork" [:P]
Video:
http://www.tulsaworld.com/webextra/default.aspx
Wow I love this project. I'm seriously looking into renting one of these when they get them up and running. I love the windows, lots of windows and great views. [:P]
Update on the project:
http://www.tulsaworld.com/opinion/article.aspx?subjectid=261&articleid=20090208_261_G1_Aviewf35877&allcom=1
(article has progress images)
quote:
Mayo reborn
by: WAYNE GREENE Editorial Writer
Sunday, February 08, 2009
2/8/2009 2:44:13 AM
On a clear day you can see all the way to Oral Roberts University.
The perspective from the top of the Mayo Hotel is truly remarkable.
You also can see all the way to a new downtown, but that takes more than just altitude.
Vision: In 2001, a development company controlled by the Charles Snyder family bought the Mayo Hotel for $250,000.
The family had bought perhaps the most historic building in Tulsa — one of the places oilman J. Paul Getty lived when he called Tulsa home, the place John Kennedy, Charles Lindbergh, and Babe Ruth stayed when they visited the city, the place where Richard Nixon once spoke — for $9,000 less than the asking price for a four-bedroom Midtown home in the next Sunday's Tulsa World real estate supplement.
In a sense, it was the low-water mark for Tulsa's downtown. A series of failed efforts to restore the hotel had left it a beautiful eyesore, its grandeur stripped away within and its exterior beginning to crumble.
The Snyder family's expectations for the dusty old landmark weren't very high.
"We basically purchased a parking lot and a hotel came with it," said Macy Snyder, sales manager for the Mayo.
It's not just a parking lot any more. It's the most exciting private project in downtown Tulsa's continuing renaissance.
The change came when the people of Tulsa passed the Vision 2025 package in 2003 and subsequently built the BOK Center a few blocks away from the Mayo, Snyder said.
At that point, the family started to think of the hotel as a true development potential.
A project to convert the hulk that once had been the city's palace hotel got a $4.9 million no-interest loan from the Vision 2025 package, a private loan for another $40 million and historic preservation tax credits that turned the property from a parking lot with a hotel to a vision of the future and the past.
Elegance restored: Go anywhere inside the Mayo today and there's activity. From the architect's office on the second floor to the penthouse, all 17 floors are buzzing with construction workers. Drywall is going up here. Molding over there. This man is painting. That one is working on the exterior brick.
They're on a pretty tight schedule. There's a bride expecting to hold her wedding inside the hotel on Oct. 3, and that's precious little time when you have 285,000 square feet to finish.
On March 1, the hotel expects to start taking deposits for tenants wanting to get onto the waiting list for one of 76 apartments on floors 2, 4, 10-15 and 17. Leases will be signed in June, and in August residents will start moving in.
There's covered parking for apartment residents under the building and for hotel and event guests in the Mayo Motor Inn next door.
Apartments will range from 700 to 2,220 square feet and residents will have the services of a luxury hotel — room service, laundry, maid service, a gym, valet parking — available to them.
A small grocery store and a museum to the hotel's history also are in the works.
In August, the building's hotel operation will start offering its 100 rooms. A grand opening event for the building is planned for late October or early November.
Despite the tight schedule, the restoration is being done meticulously.
The apartments won't be cheap work with a famous address. From the wood floors of the smallest apartment to the original four chandeliers to be restored to the Crystal Ballroom, everything is being done with attention to detail, elegance and history.
The highlight will be the 16th floor ballroom, one of the central settings from Tulsa's glorious past.
The room that has held decades of the swankest events in Tulsa history will be returned to its former glory. The ghosts of Getty and Skelly will watch as a new generation of Tulsans — up to 350 at a time with 80 more in adjoining space — dance and dine.
"This is the one space that will be exactly the way it was when it was built," Snyder said.
Believe: In the past four years, Snyder said she's seen a remarkable change in downtown Tulsa, and the reason is obvious.
"The BOK Center is doing very well," she said. "The city and the surrounding area are supporting it."
There are more restaurants, the atmosphere is safe, and there are more people on the streets.
She goes to night events at the BOK Center and doesn't hesitate to walk to and from her car at the hotel.
"I wouldn't have felt that way a year ago."
The next leap forward for downtown will be the Mayo's reopening — following a series of attempts that had left some in doubt that the building would ever reopen.
"This being restored is so crucial to the restoration of downtown," Snyder said. "It takes people actually seeing it happen.
"I have people ask me all the time, 'Is the Mayo actually happening?'" she said.
It is.
I saw lights on in the two upper floors Friday night. I couldn't believe my eyes...it's been dark for so long.
I can't wait to go to an event there, I always buy my coffee from Topeka just so I can go inside the building.
The Mayo Hotel is slated to open end of summer/beginning of fall. Hotel, and lofts to lease. After five years, the lofts will be available for purchase. I've seen the lobby rendering and it's beautiful.
What brand of hotel? Or will it just be the Mayo, like the Ambassador?
Ooooh, would love to see the lobby renderings if anyone can find them. I believe I heard that they were going to try to put the grand staircase back in?
quote:
Originally posted by TheArtist
Ooooh, would love to see the lobby renderings if anyone can find them. I believe I heard that they were going to try to put the grand staircase back in?
If you watch the video at the Tulsa World site the last shot has what looks like an image of how the lobby will look with the grand staircase.
http://www.tulsaworld.com/webextra/content/videos/2008/mwplayer.swf
Looks nice. Appears as though they have already added a lot more ornate moldings back to the lobby, and I dont remember those chandeliers last time I was there. It will be nice to have a grand old hotel like this once again.
Looks like they've got a new website up for the Mayo Hotel and Lofts project.
http://www.themayohotel.com/index.htm
It's pretty bare but if you navigate through the "Luxury Residences" you can get a good look at the floorplans for the upper portion of the building. Exciting stuff!
I could've sworn that I saw some neon lights on in the Mayo sign the other day... is that true?
Restoring the Mayo back to being a grand hotel and adding the apartments is a GREAT thing for downtown. Until there is another hotel built closer, this will be the closest hotel to the BOK Center.
Quote from: TURobY on April 17, 2009, 12:04:40 PM
I could've sworn that I saw some neon lights on in the Mayo sign the other day... is that true?
I saw the same thing one night earlier this week. They haven't been on since. I look forward to the day when that big Mayo sign is lit up all night every night.
FYI, TulsaNow will be offering a tour of the Mayo Hotel (including the Crystal Ballroom, completed lofts, and of course, the lobby and Grand Staircase) sometime in May. ("See The Mayo in May.") A lot of people are eager to see this Tulsa icon as it returns to its former glory. It's still a work in progress, but the building is stunning, and it will be interesting to see a completely decorated loft. Stay tuned for the date. This will be a free tour.
We hope it will whet your appetite for learning more about downtown living. If you enjoy the TN tour, don't miss the Tulsa Foundation for Architecture's annual Downtown Living Tour...which takes place later in the summer. There's a small charge for the TFA tour, but it opens doors into some of the most unique and interesting residential spaces available downtown.
Stay tuned....
Quote from: PonderInc on April 17, 2009, 02:01:25 PM
FYI, TulsaNow will be offering a tour of the Mayo Hotel (including the Crystal Ballroom, completed lofts, and of course, the lobby and Grand Staircase) sometime in May. ("See The Mayo in May.") A lot of people are eager to see this Tulsa icon as it returns to its former glory. It's still a work in progress, but the building is stunning, and it will be interesting to see a completely decorated loft. Stay tuned for the date. This will be a free tour.
We hope it will whet your appetite for learning more about downtown living. If you enjoy the TN tour, don't miss the Tulsa Foundation for Architecture's annual Downtown Living Tour...which takes place later in the summer. There's a small charge for the TFA tour, but it opens doors into some of the most unique and interesting residential spaces available downtown.
Stay tuned....
Will this just be a TN event or something promoted to the general public? I think promoting it to the rest of city, if possible, would be good for the publicity of the Mayo and downtown.
Like all TulsaNow events, it will be open to the public. However, we will limit it to two tours of 25 people. (This is related to elevator capacities, hard hats/safety glasses, and the quality of the experience.) We're looking at a 4:30 PM tour and a 6:00 PM tour...and we'll be firming up the date in the next week or so. We'll announce it via the TulsaNow newsletter and this forum, and we'll ask people to RSVP.
See the Mayo in May!
TulsaNow is hosting a free tour of the Mayo Hotel on Wed, May 13. Tours will be held at 4:30 and 6:00 PM. Please RSVP to info @ tulsanow.org. Tours are limited to 25 people for each time slot.
The tour will include the Crystal Ballroom, completed lofts, and of course, the lobby and Grand Staircase.
Thanks to the Mayo Hotel and the Snyder family for their willingness to open their doors and show us this incredible Tulsa treasure. (And more importantly, for restoring a Tulsa icon.) Preserving the irreplaceable? Priceless.
Quote from: PonderInc on May 06, 2009, 11:10:47 AM
See the Mayo in May!
TulsaNow is hosting a free tour of the Mayo Hotel on Wed, May 13. Tours will be held at 4:30 and 6:00 PM. Please RSVP to info @ tulsanow.org. Tours are limited to 25 people for each time slot.
The tour will include the Crystal Ballroom, completed lofts, and of course, the lobby and Grand Staircase.
Thanks to the Mayo Hotel and the Snyder family for their willingness to open their doors and show us this incredible Tulsa treasure. (And more importantly, for restoring a Tulsa icon.) Preserving the irreplaceable? Priceless.
grumble grumble, the one time I actually have plans on a wed after work..... might have to rearrage a few things for this.
Me me me me me me me me me!
I'm in like Flynn. RSVP sent.
Me too! I registered for the 4:30 tour.
Registered as well for 6 pm, hope I wasn't too late.
I can't find where to RSVP at
Quote from: custosnox on May 06, 2009, 02:17:09 PM
I can't find where to RSVP at
Email info@tulsanow.org to RSVP
duh!!! the spaces on each side of the @ threw me
Apparently 4:30 is the only tour slots left and not many of those.
yep, I was too late...
Quote from: custosnox on May 06, 2009, 02:52:43 PM
yep, I was too late...
How did you know? Should I have received a confirmation that my email arrived?
Curious too. I didn't receive confirmation in either the affirmative or negative.
Quote from: OSU on May 06, 2009, 03:43:33 PM
How did you know? Should I have received a confirmation that my email arrived?
they emailed me saying the 6:00 was full and asked if I could do the 4:30
So no reply means good to go?
Quote from: Townsend on May 06, 2009, 03:58:01 PM
So no reply means good to go?
I'm wondering the same thing, never got a reply. I'll be in OKC that day but I was planning on making the drive up to see the Mayo.
I sent an e-mail asking about attending the 4:30 tour the other day but got no confirmation either.
I'm signed up for the email updates and sent an email instantly - before it was posted in this thread, so I have to assume I'm in. But I did not get a confirmation email. So I'm guessing silence is golden.
We had over 120 RSVP's for 50 slots and some of our early respondents didn't specify a time slot, wanted to bring kids (which we didn't know if it was allowed or not) etc. So, it's taken some time to get the list firmed up.
Due to the number of respondents we're going to seek out additional tours and will give those who missed out this round first dibs. We were planning on a possible followup tour in July but that likely won't be enough and we really want to be able to provide tours for as many people as possible.
If you are definitely confirmed, you will be getting an email this morning. Because a few numbers are still up in the air I won't be sending a message to those who didn't make it right away in case a few more can make it in.
Ok lucky tour goers..... how was it?
Quote from: Nic Nac on May 13, 2009, 07:32:47 PM
Ok lucky tour goers..... how was it?
Awesome. The place is fantastic. The rooms that were done are top notch all around. The building itself is really cool 1920s style. Everything is well done.
Have pics, will post at some point.
I had a great time. Tour was great and they really seem to be doing things right inside the Mayo. The impression I got from the tour is that the Snyder family cares about the Mayo Hotel and are spending a lot of time, effort, and money to insure that the current building lives up to the standard of the past. The apartments look awesome and if I had the money I would be down there tomorrow picking one out for myself. The Hotel suites look amazing it is awesome to have a hotel room with hardwood floors. So to sum up the afternoon; I got to meet The Artist, see a Tulsa Landmark being revived, and the tour guide was cute. Pretty good all around I'd day. Here is a pic of the Mayo stained glass...
(http://i233.photobucket.com/albums/ee38/eahime/IMG_0033.jpg)
Quote from: OSU on May 13, 2009, 11:50:08 PM
I had a great time. Tour was great and they really seem to be doing things right inside the Mayo. The impression I got from the tour is that the Snyder family cares about the Mayo Hotel and are spending a lot of time, effort, and money to insure that the current building lives up to the standard of the past. The apartments look awesome and if I had the money I would be down there tomorrow picking one out for myself. The Hotel suites look amazing it is awesome to have a hotel room with hardwood floors. So to sum up the afternoon; I got to meet The Artist, see a Tulsa Landmark being revived, and the tour guide was cute. Pretty good all around I'd day. Here is a pic of the Mayo stained glass...
(http://i233.photobucket.com/albums/ee38/eahime/IMG_0033.jpg)
okay, I was dissapointed before for not getting in on this. Now, after you said the tour guide was cute, I'm just down right depressed.
The wife and I were very impressed.
One of the first things she said to me as we were leaving was that we will need to periodically stay there for the heck of it.
She was immediately on the phone with a friend who was thinking of moving away because she misses the urban feel. Her friend is excited to see it now that it's been described to her so well.
The mention of a small grocery store opening across the street in the Mayo car building was a huge selling point.
It was very cool. The Snyder family has done a good thing for Tulsa.
It's going to be a really nice hotel. All the rooms are suites. I stayed at Hotel Phillips in KC awhile back and this will blow that out of the water, just in terms of the room size and feel of the place. It's going to be spectacular.
The condos are interesting. Some have two levels.
Hope someone does something to make the civic center plaza not look like something out of 28 Days later. There are great views from the Mayo, some I'd never really seen for downtown. But if you turn west, there's a big ugly wasteland in the foreground. Everything else in downtown is looking up.
Quote from: Gold on May 14, 2009, 10:28:28 AM
Hope someone does something to make the civic center plaza not look like something out of 28 Days later. There are great views from the Mayo, some I'd never really seen for downtown. But if you turn west, there's a big ugly wasteland in the foreground. Everything else in downtown is looking up.
From someone that is on that plaza several times a week, +1.
Quote from: cannon_fodder on May 14, 2009, 10:56:37 AM
From someone that is on that plaza several times a week, +1.
Maybe we should have an official hate on the Civic Center Plaza/ courthouse thread. I'd start with courthouse security.
Quote from: Gold on May 14, 2009, 10:28:28 AM
It was very cool. The Snyder family has done a good thing for Tulsa.
It's going to be a really nice hotel. All the rooms are suites. I stayed at Hotel Phillips in KC awhile back and this will blow that out of the water, just in terms of the room size and feel of the place. It's going to be spectacular.
The condos are interesting. Some have two levels.
Hope someone does something to make the civic center plaza not look like something out of 28 Days later. There are great views from the Mayo, some I'd never really seen for downtown. But if you turn west, there's a big ugly wasteland in the foreground. Everything else in downtown is looking up.
B,b,b,b, but, that's great mid-century architecture
/channeling Hometown
Quote from: Gold on May 14, 2009, 11:33:54 AM
I'd start with courthouse security.
Is that those people in brown shirts sitting by the door and/or leaning against a machine of some sort waiving you through when the machine beeps? Or the retired officers in the Courtrooms?
I've heard a story about S.W.I.M. who used a satchel to bring a firearm to the range, threw it in his trunk and forgot about it. Opened it up in Court and had to make a quick decision. He excused himself saying he left documents in the car and put it back in his trunk. Ooops!
By and by they serve their purpose really. Providing the illusion of security. Most of them are very nice anyway . . .
Sorry to be impatient....any pictures yet?
Quote from: Conan71 on May 14, 2009, 11:58:10 AM
B,b,b,b, but, that's great mid-century architecture
/channeling Hometown
http://www.tulsanow.org/forum/index.php?topic=13445.new#new (http://www.tulsanow.org/forum/index.php?topic=13445.new#new)
Cliff's Notes Recap: The Mayo Hotel is amazing!
I'm especially in love with The Crystal Ballroom (the last time I saw it, it looked like a survivor of the London Blitz). If you got married there, or had your prom there, you'll be excited to know that it's being completely restored to it's former grandeur. (At tremendous expense!) They had to make molds of the surviving ornamental detail, and have all the plaster re-cast and reinstalled, so that it looks exactly as it did in its heyday. The original windows and terrazzo floors are essentially intact, and will be restored, too.
The apartments and hotel rooms are very cool, and have terrific views, no matter which way you face. Downtown, the arena, the river, sunsets ...awesome! (And lots of natural light.)
I thought they did a nice job of finding compatibility between the modern feel of the apartments and the historic look and feel of the public areas of the building. They manage to blend the two in a way that feels natural and classy.
The penthouse and rooftop area are going to be awesome. I think they said they will rent the space for special events. (Party where Elvis slept!)
Workers are currently repairing all the terra cotta on the outside of the building (I didn't realize that all the stuff that's not brick is actually terra cotta).
And, yes, the sign on the roof will be re-lit!
I never got to stay in the Mayo Hotel before its demise. But I've always admired it from the outside. Seeing it yesterday, and hearing the Snyders speak with such obvious passion about their desire to return it to its former glory gave me chills...and a lot of hope for Tulsa's future.
One thing that really stood out to me was the deep, but comfortable elegance of the place. Sometimes you go into an "upscale" building and are assaulted with pretentiousness. The Mayo is so inherently cool, and the Snyders are treating it with such great respect, that it doesn't have to shout its magnificence. It just is. (Even while still under construction.)
If you missed this tour, TulsaNow is definitely going to host another one (or more) in July. The Mayo Hotel lofts will also be on the TFA's upcoming Downtown Living Tour in June.
.
Thanks and HELLO!!! :)
Quote from: bacjz00 on May 15, 2009, 11:26:44 AM
Thanks and HELLO!!! :)
Our illustrious tour guide?
Quote from: PonderInc on May 14, 2009, 03:51:24 PM
The penthouse and rooftop area are going to be awesome. I think they said they will rent the space for special events. (Party where Elvis slept!)
Hopefully they have some type of regular event open to the public, something like the Peabody in Memphis and their regular Thursday night rooftop parties in the summmer months. If not, I may have to bust out the tux and crash somebody's party.
http://www.peabodymemphis.com/popup/pop_rooftop.cfm (http://www.peabodymemphis.com/popup/pop_rooftop.cfm)
Quote from: TheTed on May 15, 2009, 01:20:55 PM
Hopefully they have some type of regular event open to the public, something like the Peabody in Memphis and their regular Thursday night rooftop parties in the summmer months. If not, I may have to bust out the tux and crash somebody's party.
http://www.peabodymemphis.com/popup/pop_rooftop.cfm (http://www.peabodymemphis.com/popup/pop_rooftop.cfm)
The Thursday night rooftop parties are a total gas. The Mayo also needs ducks and a fountain in the lobby. Did you ever get to see the daily duck parade in the Peabody?
For those of you who took pictures on the tour...
If you're planning to post pictures from the tour online, I think it would be good if they were labeled: "under construction" or "undergoing restoration" or some such thing.
The Mayo Hotel typically doesn't allow people to take pictures during tours. They allowed us to do this as a special one-time favor. I think their marketing person will sleep better if nobody gets confused about the difference between our tour's "work in progress" photos, and the completed product.
What was the estimated completion date? Did they mention a price / SF on the condos? Tough time to sell but sounds like they'll be offering great units.
Pictures please!
I really wanted to take pics..... but forgot my camera :-[
Btw. I was VERY impressed with how the hotel rooms will be. And I am not easily impressed with such things. Easily the nicest rooms of any hotel in town. I believe they said that the average hotel room is about 400 sq feet, but the Mayo Hotel Rooms will be 800 sq feet and up. They all have kitchens, beautiful dark wood floors, chic contemporary furniture and decor, living room with flat screen TV, separate bedroom/bedrooms, granite counter tops, contemporary cabinets, sink and fixtures in the bath and kitchen, etc. If you have a guest coming to town, this will be the place to send them and impress them. Open, roomy, and sophisticated. Far above the average fare, and very reasonably priced.
The Crystal Ballroom will be one of the most beautiful rooms in the city once its done. I didnt realize how big the decorative corbels that "brace up the ceiling" were. They still had them on the floor in the packing crates. Each was easily several feet wide and almost 6 feet tall.
Quote from: Nic Nac on May 17, 2009, 09:09:40 PM
What was the estimated completion date? Did they mention a price / SF on the condos? Tough time to sell but sounds like they'll be offering great units.
Pictures please!
They won't be doing condos for 5 years at the earliest. The have to be apartments for a minimum of five years. Same as the Philtower Lofts.
The wait is over - 89 photos are posted at my Flickr, at http://www.flickr.com/photos/dscott28604/sets/72157618390831063 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dscott28604/sets/72157618390831063).
Take a look! I'll try to post some small versions of them here, later.
Enjoy.
Quote from: TheArtist on May 17, 2009, 11:17:21 PM
The Crystal Ballroom will be one of the most beautiful rooms in the city once its done. I didnt realize how big the decorative corbels that "brace up the ceiling" were. They still had them on the floor in the packing crates. Each was easily several feet wide and almost 6 feet tall.
Here's a photo of you with the corbels:
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3367/3546265772_81d08d73bf.jpg)
Quote from: dsjeffries on May 19, 2009, 01:08:30 PM
Here's a photo of you with the corbels:
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3367/3546265772_81d08d73bf.jpg)
Saved to harddrive for future blackmail.
Quote from: dsjeffries on May 19, 2009, 01:08:30 PM
The wait is over - 89 photos are posted at my Flickr, at http://www.flickr.com/photos/dscott28604/sets/72157618390831063 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dscott28604/sets/72157618390831063).
Great work. The hotel is stunning. Won't have to be jealous of the Skirvin much longer . . .
Quote from: dsjeffries on May 19, 2009, 01:08:30 PM
The wait is over - 89 photos are posted at my Flickr, at http://www.flickr.com/photos/dscott28604/sets/72157618390831063 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dscott28604/sets/72157618390831063).
Take a look! I'll try to post some small versions of them here, later.
Enjoy.
Here's a photo of you with the corbels:
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3367/3546265772_81d08d73bf.jpg)
I won't repeat what the co-workers said when they saw this photo on the screen while I was around the corner.
I hereby officially despise all of you lol.
Quote from: dsjeffries on May 19, 2009, 01:08:30 PM
The wait is over - 89 photos are posted at my Flickr, at http://www.flickr.com/photos/dscott28604/sets/72157618390831063 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dscott28604/sets/72157618390831063).
Take a look! I'll try to post some small versions of them here, later.
Enjoy.
Here's a photo of you with the corbels:
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3367/3546265772_81d08d73bf.jpg)
Your pictures are incredible, you should post them on Skyscraperpage or something for all to see. The views of downtown, uptown, and the surrounding hills from there are excellent.