New plan for Hotel Aiken, other properties unveiled

AIKEN, S.C. (WJBF) — Downtown Aiken could be getting a major makeover. Developers unveiled early plans for Hotel Aiken and nearby properties.

“I’m just so thankful that it’s finally getting done. Right now, it’s an eyesore,” Carolyn Luckey said.

Dozens came out to Newberry Hall Tuesday to see what’s next for the historic hotel. Renderings show a hotel addition with a glass corridor, a rooftop bar on Laurens Street, and luxury apartments on Bee Lane.

“I like the way they kept the style of the hotel pretty much intact,” Bob Wide added. “In fact, little history. My great-grandfather’s uncle was the first owner of the hotel.”

The plans keep the hotel’s original structure and woodwork, using historical photos as a guide.

“Making sure that the new hotel itself not only resembles that and preserves the history that was there, but also we’re adding some modern touches to it,” VP of Sales & Revenue Strategies of Oliver Hospitality Ashleigh Narcelles shared.

The project will have 70–80 rooms, including suites. A three-story parking deck and new public spaces are planned.

“From the lobby level, you’ll have a restaurant as well as a bar within that restaurant, a cocktail parlor as well,” she added.

Most people welcomed the boost for downtown. Others worried about how the new buildings will fit with Aiken’s historic character.

“I’m not terribly happy about the project,” Martin Buckley shared. “I think that it’s too big, too much for Aiken and it’s too high, too wide, too, unhandsome. We could do better.”

Developers say public input will help shape the final design as the plans move forward.