Words by Christiana Roussel
Photos by Chelsea Patricia, Douglas Friedman, and Alex Marvar
TESSERAE: the private social club where the sum of the parts is greater than the individual.
Lukus Grace has a vision: Tesserae, a new kind of Third Space.
THIRD SPACE a term coined by sociologist Ray Oldenburg, referring to places where people spend time between home and work. These are locations where we exchange ideas, develop community and build relationships.
As Thompson Buckhead general manager, Lukus Grace has been charged with executing a specific vision for this new property in the tony Buckhead neighborhood of Atlanta.
Yes, Executive Chef Todd Ginsburg helms the hotel restaurant, Dirty Rascal, with a menu of updated Italian classics, making it feel as welcoming to locals as to hotel guests.
Yes, Beverage Manager Thandi Walton curates a cocktail program as unique as she is.
But even more, in the development of this property, Grace saw an opportunity for the coveted rooftop level to become something transformative in Atlanta—a place to blur the lines between indoors and out, skyline and hardwoods, structure and function, creativity and forward movement. He says, “The main inspiration behind Tesserae was to create an inclusive space where individuals of all backgrounds could mingle in an elevated yet relaxed environment. It’s no secret that Atlanta is home to a diverse community, and we wanted to be sure that was represented and reflected at Tesserae.”
Well-versed and trained in luxury hotel management, Grace conceived of Tesserae as a private social club, founded upon the power of the people, noting, “It’s not only a fantastic place to network and cultivate relationships, but our members also come here to enjoy special events and serve their common purpose of having a good time in an environment where they feel comfortable and at home.” To be sure, Tesserae attracts movers and shakers, thought-leaders, C-suite executives, creatives and philanthropists.
Tesserae also attracts hotel guests staying in one of the 16 suites available on property. Inviting a select number of non-members into this rooftop realm serves to infuse the conversations with interesting perspectives and foster organic connections. Grace notes, “Our goal was to blur the lines between work and play—and so far, that’s exactly what we’ve seen.”
Note: for a limited time, guests booking suites at Thompson Buckhead may take advantage of a special ‘Suite & Social’ rate, letting them experience Tesserae first hand. Book now!