This distinctive historic hotel and Historic European Cobblestone and curb are a perfect match!

The Charmant Hotel, which means “charming” in French, is the first boutique hotel of its kind in La Crosse, Wisconsin. The 5-story 67-room upscale hotel which opened last fall once housed the Joseph P. Funke Candy Company built in 1898, one of the largest chocolate factories in the country. The Charmant Hotel provides an example of how developers can bring new life back into once-glorious buildings that are now fading. Today the well-known building still contains small pieces of its history such as, lights and pulleys in addition to architectural details that have been preserved and reimagined including; maple wood flooring, wood beams, and exposed brick. Some say these materials still emanate the sweet smell of candy.

The historic hotel’s ambiance begins at the front entry, where arriving visitors and guests are greeted with 100 to 400-year-old Historic European Cobblestone®; authentic antique cobblestone and reclaimed limestone curb from Monarch Stone International. This exceptional collection of cobble and curb, was originally quarried, hand trimmed and installed in village and city streets in Europe 100 to 400 years ago. The top surface is naturally weathered and worn after centuries of exposure to climate, foot traffic, horses and carriages. As a result, the patina is impressive and unmistakably real.

Historic European Cobblestone was specified by R.A. Smith National of Brookfield WI, who provided structural and landscape architectural services. Structures Hardscapes Specialties Inc. of Shakopee, MN meticulously installed the reclaimed material and provided the photos. Structures Hardscapes Specialties is a design-build construction firm specializing in Earth Retention, Slope Stabilization and Paver Pavements.

Over 2,200 sf of antique reclaimed granite 5”x 8” rectangle street cobbles were installed for the valet/drop off area. 2,400 sf of 5” to 6” square Historic Sidewalk Cobble were used on the walkway, over a heating system. Historic Sidewalk Cobble is a unique type of antique cobble, reclaimed from pedestrian areas in Europe, characterized by its natural warm earthy color range and a surface which is more flat than traditional types of antique cobble in the collection. The two types of antique stone are connected beautifully by 160 LF of genuine antique limestone curb.Antique Reclaimed Cobblestone_The Charmant Hotel-4a

Monarch Stone International is excited and honored to play a role in the historic renovation of the Charmant Hotel. Antique Historic European Cobblestone® is a perfect match for this distinctive building!

Building: The Charmant Hotel, La Crosse Wisconsin
Installation: Structures Hardscapes Specialties Inc., Shakopee MN
Landscape Architect: R.A. Smith National, Inc.