The Strathallan hotel in Rochester, New York, is undergoing an $8 million renovation to enhance its upscale status. Led by owner Dave Christa, the project updates the lobby, bar, restaurant, and 157 guest rooms while emphasizing local culture as part of Hilton's Tapestry Collection. Renovations are ahead of schedule, with upper floors already completed.
The Strathallan, a premier hotel in Rochester's Neighborhood of the Arts at the corner of East Avenue and Strathallan Park, began its approximately $8 million makeover late last fall. Originally built in 1975 as a senior apartment building that failed to attract tenants, it was repurposed into an upscale hotel around 1980. The property now features 157 rooms across eight floors, with three suites on the ninth-floor rooftop, and balconies on 129 rooms. Oversized windows and rooms, along with 16 different layouts, distinguish it from typical hotels.
The renovation, required every 10 or 12 years under the Tapestry Collection by Hilton standards, goes beyond guest rooms to include a redesigned lobby, bar, and restaurant. The front desk has moved to the rear wall, creating a social gathering space with a 95-inch television and a glass-enclosed fireplace. Hotel general manager Jay Rettberg described the lobby as "now much more of a social gathering space." New furniture, flooring, drapery, wall coverings, and fixtures have been installed in all rooms, with floors five through nine completed and floors two through four set to finish by April 1—two months ahead of schedule.
Owner Dave Christa emphasized the hotel's ambition: "There are a lot of great hotels in town but we strive to be the best." He added that the design elements resemble those in big-city hotels. The project, managed by Christa Development, involved local firms like Hanlon Architects for design and Fab Well for custom metalwork. Construction manager Eric Neu noted the team's investment, as many workers are also patrons.
Located near the Memorial Art Gallery, Rochester Museum and Science Center, and George Eastman Museum, the hotel caters to business travelers during the week and locals for staycations on weekends. The rooftop City View Ballroom and Hattie’s Lounge, named for late activist Hattie Harris, offer skyline views. Christa highlighted the staff's role: "It’s the team—the front desk, housekeeping, the bartenders and event staff, everyone... One of the key words we see continually in review is ‘friendly.’"
