New plans and renderings for an 11-story hotel proposed on a former Wendy’s site near MUSC’s downtown campus show a more upscale design and a new brand as the project moves closer to construction.
The 175-room property planned for 194 Cannon St. is now being proposed as a Tempo by Hilton, according to updated plans submitted to the city.
The latest renderings show a noticeably refined architectural design compared with plans approved by the Board of Architectural Review in 2020. The revised concept features a more contemporary, upscale appearance while maintaining the size and footprint.
Tempo by Hilton is an “upscale, approachable lifestyle” hotel brand designed for those who seek a “balance of wellness, productivity and style while traveling,” according to Hilton’s website.
If the proposed hotel moves forward, it would become the first to fly that flag in South Carolina.
A rendering shows hotel plans for 191 Cannon St., where a vacant Wendy’s stands today.
The updated look comes as the development clears key regulatory hurdles.
Last month, the city’s Board of Zoning Appeals unanimously approved a special exception allowing the hotel use, effectively reinstating a previous approval that had expired after changes to the project’s ownership structure.
The approval followed months of uncertainty over which regulations governed the development. The city’s legal department ultimately determined the earlier zoning rules still apply.
The hotel is part of a larger redevelopment of the site that also is to include a five-story parking garage. That portion of the project received renewed approval from the BAR in May.
The project comes back before the panel for a conceptual review Aug. 12 at 4:30 p.m. at 2 George St.
On board
The state authority that oversees Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum has a new member from Charleston area.
Charles “Charlie” Carmody was appointed by Gov. Henry McMaster.
Carmody is senior vice president of CBRE and is broker-in-charge of the commercial real estate firm’s Charleston, Columbia and Greenville offices. He brings more than four decades of industry experience.
“His experience in strategic planning and community leadership will be a valuable asset as we continue preserving our nation’s history while ensuring Patriots Point remains a world-class destination for generations to come,” said Wayne Adams, chairman of the Patriots point Development Authority.
A Lowcountry native and University of South Carolina graduate, Carmody serves on the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce board and is a past president of the Charleston Trident Association of Realtors and its commercial investment arm.
The Patriots Point board is made up of nine members. They serve four-year terms.
F&B shoutout
Charleston’s Palmetto Hotel was included in the Taste of the South Magazine’s Taste 50 awards.
The program recognizes “influential figures, beloved restaurants and iconic food brands shaping the Southern food scene,” according to its website.
“Honored is an understatement,” the hotel shared on Instagram. “We’re proud to represent Charleston’s vibrant hospitality community.”
The property was praised for its lively libations and regional fare, making its bar an ideal spot for starting a night out or enjoying a nightcap.
