An exterior view of The Oread, a new hotel at 12th and Indiana streets.

An interior view of The Oread, a new hotel at 12th and Indiana streets.

Perched on the hallowed peak of Mount Oread, at the corner of 12th and Indiana streets, a striking limestone fortress now bookends the KU campus.

The Oread, a luxury hotel and multipurpose venue, has made its official debut, and on the eve of its recent invitation-only grand opening, “Home and Away” toured Lawrence’s latest landmark. The first of a two-part episode premieres tonight.

Lead architect Tim Homburg discusses the inspiration behind the building’s design and the controversial construction of the nine-story, 99-room hospitality haven in one of the city’s most historic and revered neighborhoods. According to general manager Nancy Longhurst, the new location fills a one-of-a-kind, pivotal niche for accommodations and events in the area.

“The Oread is the most unique and complete center for lodging, hospitality, business and social leisure activities in the region, all at one extraordinary location,” Longhurst says.

Inside, limitless limestone abounds in arched walls and hearth-warmed gathering spots.

Handsomely tufted furniture in textured fabrics and leather offer seating that is both comfortable and stylish. The lobby offers a brick barreled ceiling and polished concrete floors. Lighting runs the gamut from rustic, bronze-hued chandeliers to contemporary cubed glass pendants. An abundance of windows capitalize on unprecedented views of neighboring Memorial Stadium.

The Bird Dog Bar pays homage to man’s best friend with tables named for humble hounds. Already a popular game-time gathering spot, the bar serves lunch and dinner and features plentiful 52-inch flat screens that compete with the campus view out the wall-spanning corner windows.

Fifth- and ninth-floor terraces and the 10th-floor observation deck provide unparalleled panoramic views of the Kaw River Valley, campus and surrounding landscape.

Well-appointed rooms range from affordable classic accommodations to premier suites.

“Home and Away” premieres at 6:30 p.m. Mondays on Sunflower Broadband Channel 6 and replays throughout the week.