Fuqua Development’s proposed $182.2 million apartment and retail project would replace the former Florida Times-Union campus along the St. Johns River in Brooklyn.
The Downtown Development Review Board on July 15 approved the exterior design for AXIS Hotels LLC’s estimated $17.6 million renovation of the historic Ambassador Hotel.
The board voted 5-0 to grant AXIS final design approval for what the developer says will be a 100-room TRYP by Wyndham hotel in the 98-year-old building at 420 N. Julia St.
The hotel also will have a restaurant and lounge.
Bryan Greiner, president of AXIS parent company Augustine Development Group LLC, said the restaurant will be a “SoHo concept” with an “industrial vibe.”
Greiner said the lounge will be a small speakeasy and wine cellar.
The restaurant will be operated by Doral-based Victory Hospitality LLC owner Mark Mughabghab.