We're kicking off 2024 with one of our favorite topics: hospitality — specifically, how much we love hosting guests in Fort Worth. Soon there will be another downtown hotel to do just that, as the former XTO Energy Building at 110 W. 7th St. is set to become a Residence Inn by Marriott.

Originally constructed in 1910, the 11-story Beaux-Arts building was designed by Sanguinet & Staats as the First National Bank of Fort Worth. Previously known as the Baker Building and the Bob R. Simpson Building, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Irving-based Icon Lodging bought the building in 2022 and is taking on a $33 million renovation. Designed by Bennett Partners, the 120,000-sqft building will soon be an extended-stay hotel. The design team is pursuing historic preservation tax credits in order to preserve the existing historic facades.

While the specific room numbers and amenities have yet to be released, Residence Inn locations commonly feature a variety of rooms and suites, a fitness center, and hot breakfast service.

Construction is expected to kick off in March and take about a year to complete. Stay tuned for hotel features and see some of Cowtown's biggest hotel renovations of 2023.