Initially designed in 1969 as the corporate offices and R&D laboratories for the Armstrong Rubber Company, later acquired by Milan-based Pirelli, Hotel Marcel's defining Brutalist origins lie in the genius of modernist architect and Bauhaus design legend Marcel Breuer. Our thoughtful restoration preserves the building's interior raw beauty, craftsmanship and materials such as granite pavers and tiling, exposed trusses and wood paneling throughout the former executive boardrooms and corner offices. Original board-formed concrete stairwells feature sculptural stairs with terrazzo treads and risers.
Brutalist Design
Aligned with the craft-meets-utility ethos of The Bauhaus, Hungarian-born architect Marcel Breuer experimented with new advances in technology and building materials to create an architectural framework that seems to defy gravity — and give iconic stature to this sculpted concrete structure of the building, now on the National Register of Historic Places.
Historic Meets Modern
Original elements blend with modern updates throughout the property. The hotel's upcycled historic reception desk will welcome all to your event in the first floor function space, adding a touch of originality.
Storied Beginnings
The roots of the iconic building which Hotel Marcel calls home begins with the Armstrong Rubber Company, one of America's premier tire production companies, founded in West Haven in 1912. Today the building is a landmark of the striking design and architecture of the era.
Armstrong was one of the largest tire companies of the 20th century, and by the 1970s, was the nations 5th largest tire seller.
Historic Presidential Suite
What was previously the president's office has been transformed into our Historic Presidential Suite, featuring restored original wood-paneling, and an artful design aesthetic.
