06/16/2026
The Mill at Zehnder Park stands as a renewed landmark in Frankenmuth—an architectural anchor that bridges the city’s heritage with its evolving identity. Once an unused mill structure, the building has been thoughtfully reimagined into a boutique hotel and lounge that celebrates both its historic bones and its new purpose.
At the heart of the project is a commitment to preservation. The design team retained as much of the original mill structure as possible, allowing its character and material authenticity to guide the transformation. These existing structural elements proved ideal for the creation of four distinctive suites, each offering its own set of amenities, views, and outdoor spaces that connect guests to the surrounding park and riverfront.
A new front addition brings contemporary functionality and clarity to the building’s circulation. This intervention introduces a vertical core—stairs, entrances, and elevator lobbies—that seamlessly links the basement and three upper levels. The addition not only enhances accessibility but also breathes new life into the façade, creating a welcoming threshold that complements the mill’s historic presence.
Interior environments were developed in collaboration with Senger Design Group of Colorado Springs, whose work brings warmth, texture, and a refined sense of hospitality to the project. Their design approach amplifies the mill’s inherent character while introducing modern comfort and elegance.
The result is a project that feels both rooted and renewed—a true gem for Frankenmuth and a model for how adaptive reuse can enrich a community. The Mill at Zehnder Park is more than a boutique hotel; it is a testament to the value of preserving history while designing for the future.
