Draftsman, Autograph Collection

The Draftsman was developed as a new boutique hotel project in downtown Charlottesville on the former site of the city’s Studio Art building. It was designed by BBGM, a noted architecture and design firm, with a modern structure sized to fit the scale of its historic surroundings while bringing contemporary style to the area

Its name, ''Draftsman,'' honors three influential Virginians — Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and James Monroe — each pivotal in drafting foundational U.S. documents like the Declaration of Independence, the Bill of Rights, and the Monroe Doctrine.

The property is part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, which focuses on unique, design-forward hotels that reflect their locale. Interiors and public spaces interweave local history and craftsmanship, nodding to the cultural and educational legacy of nearby University of Virginia and the broader Piedmont region.

Upon opening, the hotel included a farm-to-table restaurant, originally called Renewal. The dining concept evolved over time and was replaced by The Ridley, a restaurant honoring Dr. Walter N. Ridley, the first African-American to graduate from UVA and an homage to local history and community development.

Contraxx manufactured Drafting Tables, Conference Tables, and Built-in Cabinetry for this project.

• Location:Charlottesville, VA
• Architect:BBGM Architects
• Design:Dash Design
• Purchasing:Benjamin West
• Custom Furniture:Contraxx