The Imperial Hotel, an 107-year-old building that has reigned over Peachtree Street since 1911, has a bustling history.
Designed by Edward E. Dougherty, it was one of the first major commercial projects in the downtown area, specifically designed to meet the city’s growing business development. The basement of the hotel, once home to a club, was a stage for Little Richard. The building eventually started to deteriorate and became a place of refuge for the city’s homeless.
In 2012, the building was purchased by Columbia Residential and National Church Residences, transforming into The Commons, an affordable housing residence.
– Haley Haas, SPR Atlanta