The Foundry Studio | Downtown Retreat St5
Overview
The Foundry Studio | Downtown Retreat St5 is a modern, open-concept studio stay positioned as a “home away from home” in the Five Points South area, with convenient access to UAB, downtown Birmingham, and nearby restaurants and nightlife. The property is smoke-free and uses app-based, keyless entry for building and unit access. It’s set up for short visits and longer stays alike, with in-unit laundry and a practical live/work layout.
Studio Layout & In-Unit Features
The studio includes a queen bed, a Smart 4K TV for streaming, and a dedicated dining/work table suitable for remote work or meals. Climate comfort features include air conditioning and heating, and essentials like an ironing board are provided. Storage includes a closet with shelving, and the unit includes a washer for extended-stay convenience.
Kitchen & Cooking
A fully equipped kitchen supports everyday meal prep, with a stove/oven and microwave. Kitchen details include granite countertops, classic white cabinets, stainless steel appliances, and a dishwasher. Cookware and tableware are supplied (pots, pans, utensils, plates, glasses, silverware), along with a coffee maker and a Brita water filter.
Building Amenities
Guests have access to a range of shared, resort-style community spaces including a 24-hour fitness center and spin room, a resident lounge, and a conference room. Outdoor features include a zen garden with a water wall, hammock garden, outdoor lounge with a firetable, and an outdoor kitchen/grilling area. Additional recreation and convenience amenities include a game room, outdoor ping pong, a bocce ball court, a coffee & hydration bar, gated access, an Amazon package hub, and bike storage/repair station.
Check-In, Verification & Parking
Check-in is designed to be seamless via a building mobile access app, but access instructions are provided only after the reservation is confirmed and required guest verification is completed. Verification is handled through Enso Connect’s Boarding Pass, with a choice between a refundable $500 security deposit (plus a $15 processing fee) or a non-refundable $35 damage waiver. On-site parking is not provided; options include free street parking (when available), metered street parking, or a public garage (rates are time-based and payment does not reserve a spot).
Best for
This studio is best for business travelers, travel nurses, and extended-stay guests who want a practical live/work setup with fast Wi‑Fi, a dedicated work table, and in-unit laundry. It also suits travelers who plan to spend time around UAB and downtown Birmingham and value building amenities like a 24-hour fitness center, resident lounge, and outdoor social spaces.
Travel tips
Complete the required guest verification after booking to ensure you receive the app-based entry instructions; bookings must be made before 1:00 AM to be eligible for same-night check-in. Plan parking in advance since on-site parking is not provided—street parking is subject to availability, and the nearby public garage charges by time and may require a new payment if you exit and return. If you expect late-night arrival needs, note guest support hours run daily from 8:00 AM to 1:00 AM.
What guests say
No guest review excerpts were provided, and the public rating and review count are not documented, so specific recurring feedback themes cannot be summarized from guest comments. Based on the listing details, likely discussion points for guests would include the modern studio setup, full kitchen, fast Wi‑Fi, and access to extensive shared amenities such as the 24-hour fitness center and outdoor lounge areas. Operational details that may shape expectations include app-based entry that requires pre-arrival verification and the lack of on-site parking, with reliance on street or paid public garage options.
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