A collection of short- and long-stay residential units in Portland’s Old Port has been expanded with the addition of seven lofts on the fourth floor of the Thompson Block at 121 Middle St.
Thompson Block is one of a group of four buildings along Middle Street, collectively named the Docent’s Collection as a was a joint venture of Portland real estate firm East Brown Cow Management and Kentucky-based hotel operator Commonwealth Hotels.
The Thompson Block, a four-story brick building constructed for commercial use in 1867 after Portland’s Great Fire, was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973.
The Docent’s Collection was launched in 2019. The business model aims to combine hotel hospitality with the personalization of a luxury residence.
“As we continue to invest in Portland’s urban fabric and aim to preserve its architectural history, we are eager to expand our breadth of offerings to contribute to the city’s continued growth and evolution,” said Tim Soley, president and CEO of East Brown Cow.
Located on the top floor of the building, the lofts were converted from vacant class B office space and showcase historic design features.
Features include a fully equipped kitchen, dining and living area and custom furnishings from Auburn-based Thos. Moser, oil paintings by Cooper Dragonette and coffee beans from local roaster Coffee By Design.
A mobile check-in process allows guests to customize their interaction with the hospitality team.
East Brown Cow also led renovations throughout the building’s second and third floors, including stairwells and corridors.
The collection includes two loft units on the upper floors of the neighboring A. Robinson Block at 115 Middle St.
Construction is underway at 178 Middle St. and 184 Middle St., 19th century buildings known respectively as the Boyd Block and the William Widgery Thomas Block.
The upper floors are being converted into 19 one- and two-bedroom lofts, set to be complete next spring.