Norwalk’s Hotel Zero Degrees to rebrand as The Watershed

The large office parks along Route 7 in Norwalk ensure a steady stream of business travelers to the area, but a natural stream that runs alongside busy Main Avenue provides an alternative attraction.

Floor to ceiling windows in the lobby of Hotel Zero Degrees frame a tranquil section of the Norwalk River surrounded by lush foliage near a railroad crossing for the Danbury Line, and that centerpiece will become even more central to the hotel’s identity next year when it becomes The Watershed.

A reception was held on the night of Sept. 14 to display renderings of the new spaces and reveal the new branding. A jazz duet set the mood while a bartender prepared cocktails from a menu aligned with the new ethos.

“The whole idea behind this renovation is to provide a more upscale service for our guests,” said Brandon Salvatore, the director of hospitality at RMS Companies, which owns the hotel. “With Covid in the rearview mirror, we just really wanted to raise the bar on hotel design and operations. We want to serve our corporate clients better with more unbelievable meeting and event spaces on our rooftop and in the event room downstairs.”

“We’re hoping that it becomes a mix of a relaxing place for those who want that but also a bustling and lively place in the evenings because that’s really what adds activity to the lobby and the general hotel. We really want this place to have a real vibe once this is done, so that’s what we’re aiming for,” Salvatore added.

In addition to the renewed focus on private, relaxing spaces and a fresh new atmosphere, The Watershed will also partner with Grace Farms Foods to provide high-grade locally produced tea and coffee. Grace Farms Foods is owned by Grace Farms, the New Canaan based nonprofit cultural and agricultural trust.

Adam Thatcher, the founder and CEO of Grace Farms Foods, was on hand during the reception to prepare samples of the teas that will be served in every room of The Watershed.

“Our coffees and teas are going to be part of the experience,” Thatcher said as he prepared a chamomile blend. “We’re excited to be moving forward with RMS. It is really special that they’re supporting a small local business that is not just any small local business, but a small local business that is non-profit owned and giving back 100% percent of the profits to helping end forced labor as well.”

Siena Ristorante, the upscale Italian eatery located just off the lobby, will remain unchanged while rooms will be refurnished and a number of the public spaces will be updated to create smaller, intimate areas for small parties and conversations.

According to Kateryna Zvarych, the hotel’s sales manager, the refresh was necessary.

“The hotel hasn’t been renovated for about 13 years now so the ownership decided that because of the new look a new name should come through. It’s going to be a very modern and unique experience, our rooftop will get fully renovated as well, we will be able to host a lot more events and may have a little pool up there as well. We are going in a very different direction – it’s going to be very, very modern, but with wooden elements for a laidback experience, and darker colors to add to the homey feeling in the place.”

Zavrych estimated that the renovations will start on Dec. 1 and be completed by May 2024.