MPM provided project management services for the development of the Graduate Hotel in Oxford, Mississippi’s Downtown historic district. This 86,000 SF hotel boasts 136 guest rooms, several private meeting spaces, an award-winning rooftop bar, various dining areas, and a lobby with unique finishes. MPM joined the project in October 2012, after the design development documents were completed. The project underwent a complete overhaul in 2013 and opened in October 2014, in time for the University of Mississippi’s football season reservations. Situated in a historic district with height restrictions and complex site logistics, the project faced challenges that MPM overcame by working closely with local jurisdiction leaders and aligning the design team with the project’s goals. Initially, the budget was not feasible, but MPM led the team to significantly cut costs while increasing the hotel’s square footage and enhancing its amenities. These efforts made the project’s pro forma align with financing requirements. During the construction phase, significant rainfall could have caused delays. However, MPM’s strategic planning led to a foundation solution that allowed vertical construction to start two months earlier, mitigating weather-related setbacks. This approach, combined with challenging team members to think strategically, delivered the project on budget and within the original construction timeline.