Once Partially Abandoned And Left To Decay, The Thompson Building In Arkansas Has Been Restored To Its Former Glory

The Waters Hotel formerly known as the Thompson Building is an important piece of Hot Springs’ history. Built in 1913, this building was originally used as office space for local doctors. Soon after, the upper floors were converted to apartments and a hotel, and later, the bottom level was used as retail spaces. Unfortunately, over the years, the upper floors of the building deteriorated from their original state and were left abandoned since the 1980s. Thankfully, the structure was saved by two well-known architects who, in 2015, began restoring the gorgeous building to the boutique hotel that it is today. This once-partially abandoned hotel in Hot Springs Arkansas is one of the most stunning buildings in the state and you’ll absolutely love its transformation.

Welcome to the luxurious Waters Hotel, a boutique hotel nestled in the heart of downtown Hot Springs. Prior to becoming this world-class hotel, the structure was a semi-abandoned building that once housed offices as well as apartments and hotel rooms.

After the upper floors were left abandoned for years, efforts were finally made to restore the building to its glory days. The building’s unique architecture featuring Corinthian pilasters, garnered the attention of architects Bob Kempkes and Anthony Taylor who led the restoration efforts.

Fun fact, George R. Mann, the original architect of the Thompson building is the renowned architect, who also designed the Arkansas State Capitol. Therefore, it was important to restore the building to its former glory while keeping some of its most intricate details.

The hexagonal tile floors, the marble along the walls and staircases as well as the original office numbers are just a few of the classic elements that were preserved.

As you can see from the before and after images below, the hotel has kept much of its original design and architecture. This was the intention of Kempkes and Taylor, the architects who restored the building.

Today, if you walk by the Waters Hotel, you’ll notice that the Thompson Building name remains etched above the entrance. Of course, this is an excellent way to pay homage to the original heart and soul of the building.

Opened in 2017, under the Hilton brand and managed by 5 Senses Hospitality Management, the hotel has won countless consecutive “Best Of” awards.

Nevertheless, it is safe to say that this luxurious boutique hotel is one of the best places to spend the night in Hot Springs. With 62 stunning meticulously decorated guest rooms…

…as well as a fine dining restaurant and a rooftop bar, you’ll absolutely love the transformation of this hotel.

The Rooftop bar is a great spot to enjoy an evening overlooking the historic Hot Springs area, not to mention the food and cocktails are to die for.

With the gorgeous restoration that was completed, The Waters Hotel, a Tapestry Collection by Hilton, will continue its legacy as being one of the most incredible buildings in the Hot Springs Historic District.

Have you ever been inside this luxurious boutique hotel? If so, tell us all about it in the comments section below. If you would like to read more about this once partially abandoned hotel in Hot Springs Arkansas, be sure to visit The Water’s Hotel website.

Did you know that Hot Springs National Park is one of the oldest parks in the country? Here’s a previous article telling you more about America’s first national park.