A Fresh Start: The Economy Inn Renovated as the Driftwood Motel

Talk of the Town  - June 2024

SVN Urban Properties saw the potential in a dilapidated property that threatened the security of the area. Now, the updated and renovated boutique motel will start accepting reservations in the next few weeks.

- by Kirby Rhodes

 
In June of 2023, locals were thrilled when the city, aided by the Bay St. Louis Police Department, shut down the eyesore Economy Inn in Bay St. Louis after discovering that the property manager was operating an illicit drug operation from the motel.
 

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Although it was in considerable disrepair, it didn’t take long for New Orleans developers SVN Urban Properties to see the potential in this unique motel, with its rich history and ideal location. They purchased the property in November of 2023 with the intent to maintain its originality but update and modernize the amenities.
 

 
Constructed mostly of cinderblock, the 27-room motel was built in the early 1960s. The structure was clearly sound, having survived both Hurricanes Camille and Katrina. Renovations got serious in December 2023, when Buck Buczkowski with Humn Captial was brought in as the project lead to set the creative direction for the motel across brand, programming, and interior design.
 

Buck became a mini-celebrity in Bay St. Louis when his design concept videos were shared on the “Residents and Visitors of Bay St. Louis” Facebook page. His goal with the design was to pay tribute to the coastal style of Bay St. Louis while bringing in retro elements as a nod to the 1960s concept of the original property – coastal, but not beachy – an important distinction. Buck said, “We wanted it to be less about the beach and more about the charm and lifestyle of the town.” Ever since this sneak peek, residents have anxiously waited for the project’s completion and its grand opening.
 

 
Developers have chosen to name this refurbished property the Driftwood Motel as a nod to the history of the property and the original motel. The rooms have baby-blue ceilings and shiplap accent walls. Patrons will be able to book single queen or a double queen room, or even a room with bunk beds. Pricing for the rooms will range from $95 to $185 per night, depending on the time of year and the room size.
 

  
Renovations were done by local construction company Kane Construction. Eugene Schmidt, one of the developers of Urban Properties, said, “As a local contractor experienced in commercial and high-end residential construction that matches this town’s spirit, Kane Construction was absolutely the right choice for this project.” Renovations included a complete overhaul for each of the rooms and the pool area. This space will be the perfect place to lounge, with a grassy area and badminton court. Steps away from this relaxing outdoor area will be a self-serve lounge with ample grab-and-go options for guests.

 
As a convenience, guests will be able to check in virtually. Doors will utilize keyless entry, and each guest will be provided a unique code to enter their room. A property manager will be onsite during regular business hours to attend to patrons’ comfort and answer any questions.
 

The Driftwood Motel will begin accepting reservations in the coming weeks, with a full launch scheduled for July 1. Rooms and rates can be found on their website at https://www.driftwoodmotelbsl.com/. Be sure to share the link with friends and family as the perfect place to stay in the Bay! 
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