The Digby
Project Description
The Digby is a five-story boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown Savannah next to Ellis Square. This mixed-use development includes high-end accommodations, a rooftop bar, a ground-floor restaurant, and retail space. As part of the Unbound Collection by Hyatt, the hotel offers 36 guest rooms and aims to blend modern luxury with Southern hospitality. The design is inspired by the 18th-century Digby family records, blending historical charm with contemporary elegance.
The Challenge
One of the significant challenges was the building’s proximity to an existing structure, which necessitated the incorporation of expansion joints to accommodate any potential structural movement. Additionally, the building’s location within a historic district required innovative solutions to meet modern engineering standards while preserving the area’s cultural heritage.
The Solution
The building’s structural system consists of structural steel for the five upper floors, with a concrete first floor and basement, all supported by a mat slab foundation. A dual lateral system was used to withstand high winds and moderate seismic forces, utilizing both the elevator core as a shear wall and exterior steel moment frames. The mat slab was implemented due to site constraints and proximity to an existing parking garage.
The Improvements
To address the site’s space constraints and its location in a historic district, the structural design maximized the available space while meeting fire safety requirements through steel framing. The team also incorporated modern amenities in a space that respects its historic roots.
The Results
The Digby is poised to be a premier destination in downtown Savannah, combining luxury and historical charm. The project is on track to provide high-end accommodations and vibrant spaces, contributing to the economic and cultural landscape of the city while meeting modern engineering and safety standards.
