Aiken, September 28, 2025
News Summary
Public sessions to reveal the preliminary design plans for the redevelopment of Hotel Aiken are scheduled for September 29 and 30. Spearheaded by Oliver Hospitality and supported by local design and marketing firms, this initiative aims to preserve the hotel’s historic charm while revitalizing downtown Aiken. With unanimous approval from the city council for the sale, community engagement will play a crucial role in the redevelopment process, highlighting the importance of historical integrity in the project.
AIKEN
Public sessions to unveil the preliminary and conceptual design plans for the redevelopment of the historic Hotel Aiken and its adjacent parcels are set for September 29 and 30, with presentations taking place at Newberry Hall, located at 117 Newberry St. S.W.
The design charrette will be hosted by Oliver Hospitality, a company that has negotiated the purchase of the properties with the city of Aiken. Garvin Design Group from Columbia, S.C. and Colliers International, which has been hired by the City of Aiken to market the properties, are also involved in the redevelopment plan.
Kaitlyn MacKay, the director of public relations for Oliver Hospitality, indicated that the public will be given an initial look at the renderings during these presentations. The session on September 29 is scheduled from 5-7 p.m., while the second session on September 30 will take place from 12-2 p.m. Craig Bradford and Ethan Orley, representatives from Oliver Hospitality, will be present at both sessions to engage with attendees.
The Aiken City Council has provided unanimous first-reading approval for the sale of the vacant historic structure and surrounding properties for $2.5 million, which took place on September 22. If the agreement is approved in a second reading by the city council, Oliver Hospitality will enter a 120-day inspection period, which may be extended by an additional 60 days, to complete its due diligence on the properties.
Before beginning renovations, Oliver Hospitality’s plans for the buildings must also receive approval from the city’s Design Review Board. Should the deal close, Oliver Hospitality will acquire several significant properties, including Hotel Aiken, Holley House, Beckman Building, Taj Aiken building, C.C. Johnson building, and Warneke Cleaners building. These properties were built between 1898 and 1981 and comprise several historically significant structures.
Oliver Hospitality, based in Nashville, specializes in managing boutique hotels and restaurants, and the redevelopment initiative marks a notable change from prior plans for the demolition of Hotel Aiken, which experienced public opposition and subsequent legal challenges. Local leaders are optimistic that the redevelopment of Hotel Aiken will serve as a catalyst for revitalizing downtown Aiken.
Linda Johnson, president of Aiken’s historic foundation, articulated joy regarding the decision to redevelop rather than demolish, highlighting the hotel’s historic significance and 125-year history in Aiken. The project aims to preserve the hotel’s charm while revitalizing the surrounding area and supporting the local community.
Key Information
- Public Sessions: September 29 (5-7 p.m.) and September 30 (12-2 p.m.)
- Location: Newberry Hall, 117 Newberry St. S.W.
- Seller: City of Aiken
- Buyer: Oliver Hospitality
- Properties Sold: Hotel Aiken and adjacent buildings
- Sale Price: $2.5 million
- Design Group: Garvin Design Group
- Marketing Firm: Colliers International
- City Council Approval: Unanimous first-reading approval on September 22
- Historic Significance: 125-year history
Conclusion
The public’s involvement in the redevelopment of the historic Hotel Aiken represents a significant opportunity for community engagement and feedback, paving the way for a rejuvenated downtown Aiken that fosters economic growth while preserving historical integrity.
FAQs
What are the dates for the public sessions regarding the redevelopment plans of Hotel Aiken?
The public sessions are scheduled for September 29 from 5-7 p.m. and September 30 from 12-2 p.m.
Where will the presentations take place?
The presentations will take place at Newberry Hall, located at 117 Newberry St. S.W.
Who is involved in the redevelopment plans?
The redevelopment plans involve Oliver Hospitality, Garvin Design Group, and Colliers International.
What is the sale price for the historic Hotel Aiken and adjacent properties?
The sale price is $2.5 million.
What is the historical significance of Hotel Aiken?
Hotel Aiken has a 125-year history and includes several historically significant structures built between 1898 and 1981.
Key Features of the Redevelopment Plans
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Public Sessions | September 29 (5-7 p.m.) and September 30 (12-2 p.m.) |
| Location | Newberry Hall, 117 Newberry St. S.W. |
| Seller | City of Aiken |
| Buyer | Oliver Hospitality |
| Sale Price | $2.5 million |
| Design Group Involved | Garvin Design Group |
| Marketing Firm | Colliers International |
| City Council Approval | Unanimous first-reading approval on September 22 |
| Historical Background | 125-year history |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Community Invited to Share Input on Hotel Aiken Renovations
Aiken City Council to Vote on Sale of Historical Properties
OTO Development Acquires Hyatt House Dallas/Uptown
Aiken’s Commercial Real Estate Market Thrives
Mayor Teddy Milner Enhances Community Engagement in Aiken
Aiken City Council Chooses Oliver Hospitality for Hotel Aiken Redevelopment
Aiken City Council Approves Revitalization of Hotel Aiken
Aiken City Council Begins Negotiations for Hotel Development
Hotel Aiken Set for Major Redevelopment
City of Aiken Design Review Board Meeting Announcement
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Hotel Aiken Design Charette
- WRDW: Aiken Leaders Pick Developer for Historic Hotel
- WFXG: Beloved Hotel Aiken to Be Restored
- Colliers: City of Aiken Lists Historic Hotel Aiken for Sale
- Post and Courier: Aiken City Council Involvement with Hotel Aiken Developer
- Wikipedia: Aiken, South Carolina
- Google Search: Hotel Aiken
- Google Scholar: Hotel Aiken
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Aiken
- Google News: Hotel Aiken
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
