The Flamingo Motel may have seen its better days, but it hasn’t seen its best days, according to new owners Brynn deLorimier and Branden Smith. The motel, situated on prime real estate at 804 Nevada Way, may look a little weathered and forlorn, but the challenge to transform it into a vibrant area for residents and tourists alike is an exciting one for Brynn and Branden. They foresee it becoming a hub of many activities and events, something similar to the Fergusons Downtown property in downtown Las Vegas.
Whatever possessed these two to take on such a monumental undertaking? Well, the answer is simple, and complicated. First, both have an affinity for historic structures and the Flamingo Motel has long been a part of the Boulder City landscape. Previous owners of the property had considered tearing the building down, to replace it with some other type of venture. Many residents were alarmed by this suggestion. They had wanted to see the property returned to a functional space somehow. Second, Brynn and Branden have a love for the community and looking for ways to engage with other members was one of the key reasons they purchased the property together. A more complex reason unfolds when you consider this project will be a major labor of love, given their plans.
Plans? Oh, yes there are many! The exciting ideas these two have are numerous, but fascinating for a town like Boulder City. Prospective uses include a community gathering spot for enjoying things like coffee, cocktails, juices, dirty sodas, and more. They plan to have places on the property to play games like chess and cornhole. They’ve considered adding a casual restaurant. Classroom space was mentioned, for teaching and demonstrations of various types to the community. Karaoke nights, art lessons, craft sessions and more will be available to the public. Brynn also talked about the possibility of having picnics to go, particularly for tourists passing through on their way to other destinations in Southern Nevada with souvenir blankets and baskets.
The aesthetic for the property will be very mid-century, hearkening back to some of Boulder City’s best years, and bringing back a simpler time. In that vein, plan to see signage and decorations in keeping with this vibe. Mister fans in the spring and summer, with heaters and fire pits for cooler months, will keep visitors comfortable in the outdoor spaces. Brynn and Branden plan to make the space very engaging for the community and we can’t wait to see it come to life!
For the immediate future, they are undertaking some of the structural work on the property, including a recent session with a nail vacuum in the parking lot area, and sourcing and obtaining vintage materials for the rehab. Their parking variance was granted by the Planning Commission. If the plan is approved by the City Council, they’ll be able to begin landscaping the courtyard soon with drought-tolerant shade trees and other Mojave Desert plants and shrubs. The property does need a lot of work and Brynn and Branden are looking forward to the challenge. Years of neglect will not be erased overnight, but rest assured a better and brighter future for the Flamingo are on the way!
You can follow the progress on their website (HERE) or their Instagram account (HERE).
