As construction officially begins on The Best Western University Inn, soon to be The Buxton Hotel, the project marked its first milestone not with demolition, but with giving back. On Monday, December 8, the team: Hillside Construction, Tribe Development, and the onsite hotel staff, donated the full contents of 16 guest rooms to the Habitat for Humanity ReStores in Fort Collins and Loveland—an effort that represents the first phase of a much larger commitment.
This won’t be the team’s only donation. They plan to donate every piece of guest room furniture and in-room equipment from all 70 rooms. This phased process will continue as Hillside moves through the building, ensuring that all usable items are diverted from waste and put directly into the hands of community members.
Across the full renovation, The Buxton Hotel is donating:
- 70 entertainment centers
- 70 mini refrigerators
- 70 microwaves
- 70 televisions
- 70 ironing boards
- 70 irons
- 70 desks
- 100 desk lamps
- 70 canvas artworks
- 70 vanity mirrors
- 120 nightstands
This partnership reflects Tribe Development’s core belief that redevelopment should benefit the community from day one. Donating these items ensures accessible, high-quality furnishings are available to local families while supporting Habitat for Humanity’s mission to build stability and opportunity through housing.
“As we breathe new life into this historic property, it’s important to us that the items that have served guests for decades continue serving our community,” said Ashley Stiles, CEO and founder of Tribe Development Company, the locally based, female-founded, Native-owned firm leading the project. “This donation reflects who we are—neighbors nvested in the well-being and vitality of Fort Collins.”
“This donation is more than furniture—it’s a meaningful investment in our community. By partnering with Habitat for Humanity, The Buxton is helping ensure quality items are kept out of the landfill, and funds are raised to support affordable homeownership opportunities for Northern Colorado families. We are grateful for their thoughtful approach,” said Sara Coutts, COO of Fort Collins Habitat for Humanity.
The hotel remains fully open throughout its phased redevelopment, continuing to welcome guests as it renovates rooms, introduces a reimagined lobby, an all-season pool with a retractable roof, and its new neighborhood gathering space, The Caldwell Bar. These enhancements reflect the project’s intentional effort to strengthen community connections and preserve the legacy of a site that has welcomed travelers since 1962.
The hotel team will continue coordinating donation drop-offs with the Fort Collins and Loveland Habitat for Humanity ReStores over the coming months as additional rooms transition into renovation.
About The Buxton Hotel
This transformative renovation, led by Tribe Development, reimagines a beloved Fort Collins landmark for a new era. When it reopens, The Buxton Hotel will join the BW Signature Collection®, an exclusive portfolio of independent hotels celebrated for their originality, character, and sense of place.
Located directly across from Colorado State University, The Buxton is a warm, spirited boutique hotel rooted deeply in the community it serves. Guided by Tribe Development’s vision, the project breathes new life into a longstanding local icon—elevating it into a design-forward, welcoming destination for travelers and locals alike.
With a mission to create spaces “Where Xtra is Welcomed,” The Buxton blends bold design, heartfelt hospitality, and an enduring love for Fort Collins’ culture, creativity, and people.
