Aiken, South Carolina, October 2, 2025
News Summary
Community members actively participated in a design charette hosted by Oliver Hospitality to discuss the renovation plans for Hotel Aiken. The event highlighted new architectural proposals, including a ballroom and residential apartments, aimed at revitalizing this historic landmark. As revitalization efforts progress, public feedback is set to enhance the project further.
Aiken, South Carolina – Community engagement surged as Oliver Hospitality presented preliminary plans for the renovation of Hotel Aiken during a public design charette held at Newberry Hall on September 29, 2025. Over 100 attendees participated in the event, which was designed to showcase the initial development ideas and gather public feedback.
Craig Bradford, senior vice president of development for Oliver Hospitality, expressed enthusiasm for the initial design stages of the project. Scott Garvin, owner of Garvin Design Group, highlighted the architectural significance of Hotel Aiken and the critical importance of its revitalization. With a history dating back to 1898, Hotel Aiken is a notable landmark in downtown Aiken and is listed on the national register of historic places.
The proposed development plans aim to preserve Hotel Aiken while also introducing new construction. An addition is planned for the east end of the hotel, which will include a 2,285-square-foot ballroom and three upper floors dedicated to hotel space. This new section will be constructed from brick to match the existing hotel’s stucco finish, ensuring aesthetic consistency.
Furthermore, a public courtyard is proposed to be developed between the new hotel addition and three existing retail spaces. A rooftop bar is also in the plans, providing scenic views of Laurens Street, and will be accessible from the courtyard area. The existing Holley House motel will be replaced with a new building, which will house five retail spaces and up to 25 luxury residential apartments.
In addition, Bee Lane is set to become a pedestrian corridor featuring seating areas sheltered by porticoes, enhancing the area’s accessibility and appeal. The Johnson-McGhee buildings will remain intact as part of the historic preservation efforts in the renovation.
A parking structure, designed to blend in with the surrounding architecture, is also proposed; it will span five stories and provide 170 parking spaces situated between the back of the McGhee buildings and Newberry Hall. Aiken City Council members have shared favorable impressions regarding the design concept and the level of community involvement in shaping future developments.
Public comments gathered during the design charette, along with a follow-up session scheduled for September 30, will be utilized to further refine the plans for the project. This initiative follows the Aiken City Council’s decision to sell the vacant Hotel Aiken and adjacent properties to Oliver Hospitality for $2.5 million after previous attempts at redevelopment had not succeeded. Community members at council meetings noted the financial loss stemming from the original purchase price but concurred on the necessity for progress in the growth and development of the area.
Oliver Hospitality is currently engaged in a 120-day inspection period for due diligence concerning the property’s development, as they prepare for the next phase of this significant renovation project.
FAQ
What was the purpose of the design charette held on September 29, 2025?
The design charette aimed to showcase preliminary plans for Hotel Aiken and gather public feedback, with over 100 attendees participating.
What are the key features of the proposed plans for Hotel Aiken?
The proposed plans include a new addition with a 2,285-square-foot ballroom, three upper hotel floors, a public courtyard, a rooftop bar, five new retail spaces, and up to 25 luxury residential apartments.
What is the timeline for the development of the project?
Oliver Hospitality is currently in a 120-day inspection period for due diligence regarding the property, with community feedback from the design charette informing further refinements.
Why was the Aiken City Council’s decision to sell the properties necessary?
The decision was made after previous unsuccessful attempts at redevelopment, with the council recognizing the need for progress despite acknowledging the financial loss from the original purchase price of $2.5 million.
Key Features of Hotel Aiken Renovation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Hotel Aiken History | Located in downtown Aiken since 1898 and on the national register of historic places. |
| New Construction | Two-part addition including 2,285-square-foot ballroom and three hotel floors. |
| Retail Spaces | Five new retail spaces and up to 25 luxury residential apartments. |
| Parking Structure | Five-story building with 170 parking spaces. |
| Community Engagement | Over 100 attendees at the design charette; further feedback sessions planned. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Aiken County Weather and Event Highlights
Exciting Events and Activities in Aiken, SC
Aiken City Seeks Public Input on Historic Hotel Renovations
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Hotel Aiken Design Charette Plans Revealed
- Wikipedia: Aiken, South Carolina
- WRDW: Give Your Input: Hotel Aiken Renovations
- Google Search: Hotel Aiken renovation
- WJBF: Full Speed Ahead for New Hotel & Restaurant in Aiken
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Aiken
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