Our pipeline in Ohio is quickly growing. Along with the growth, exciting new opportunity and brands are making one of their first appearances in the state. Here are three brands developing in our state…
Canopy is beginning to make its mark in Ohio with its’ newest property in the state being built by Indus Hotels on Nationwide Boulevard in the heart of downtown Columbus. This lifestyle brand began internationally and as of last year has begun to lay its domestic roots. With a passionate focus on all things local within each of its’ cities, their vision for their local culture is spread through their employees who they refer to as “enthusiasts”. Across the locations from Iceland to the U.S., each room has a ‘canopy’ bed structured by a ceiling high gray headboard with an overhang. These sleek properties will be a must visit in the months and years to come!
Yes, it is really happening! Very soon we will have…. A BEER HOTEL. I know what you are thinking, “Lauren, don’t joke about things such as this.” Rest assured, no jokes here! In Canal Winchester, BrewDog opened their first brewery in the United States. The brewery alone now has 3 locations within the Greater Columbus Area with sights on Cleveland & Cincinnati next. Now, they are on to their first hotel in the U.S., The DogHouse, with rooms featuring views of the brewery, in-room beer taps, and last but not least (and the single thing my husband is most excited about) there is a beer cooler in the shower! I am looking forward to the hops based and locally produced toiletries. Opening the end of August 2018!
My inner Buckeye is jumping at the development of The Graduate hotel in Columbus on the campus of The Ohio State University. This will be The Graduate’s first property in the state. The Graduate’s décor pays homage to the university itself. Common areas may be reminiscent of items such as the main library, noteworthy architecture, academics, and athletics. For example, the common areas of The Graduate on the campus of that school up North, is mocked after their gorgeous library and their academic seal is on the headboards. As an OSU Alum, I am so excited to see this come to fruition in Columbus!
Members – Are you wondering what else is in the pipeline for Ohio? Access the myOHLA tab at www.ohiolodging.com and review our New Construction Pipeline; updated quarterly! Or contact me with questions directly at Lauren@ohla.org.
Until Next Time,
Lauren
I pulled up to the Superior Ave. valet entrance and was quickly on my way to the second floor which is where the front desk and lobby is located. This hotel is a charmer! Think of an atrium reminiscent of The Titanic with a roof like a greenhouse allowing natural light to pour in through glass tiles and beam off of ornate metal working throughout the floors.
Identified as one of the earliest known indoor shopping malls in the United States, there are still active shops, a spa, a lovely coffee shop called Rising Star Coffee Roasters (which I found myself at 3 mornings in a row!). Being inside the Hyatt Regency at The Arcade felt more like being in its’ own little time capsule of a city than a hotel.
Once I got to my room, the first thing I noticed was the rich wood doors, the window’s wooden blinds, and the black steel mail slot in my door labeled “Letters”. I walked into our extremely spacious room that offered high ceilings along with a separate living area from the rest of the bedroom and bathroom. (I am an early riser, so the separation was so nice to have, I could head down to the coffee shop, come back and sit in the lock-off area without disturbing my husband or our friends!)
Large drum shade light fixtures hang in both the living area and above the beds. The wall separating the spaces featured a mirror and wood accents and the door knobs were ornate black metal. The room has a modern vibe while paying homage to its’ historic roots.
If you’re totally behind the times, Ohio recently got its second 
Whether you sit inside or out, guests can enjoy the tapas menu with impressive views, cool music and delicious cocktails. If you haven’t been yet, I highly recommend a visit. If you’re there on a Thursday-Saturday, there is a dress code. Kind of old school, but I like it. Embrace the exclusivity, because at this rooftop bar, you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world. And why not make a night out of it an enjoy the accommodations at the AC Hotel Dublin?
Let me tell you, The Summit, knows how to throw a party. From the lobby to the 4th floor restaurant and event space, there was action. The staff was certainly on their toes for the event but I could easily tell they were thrilled to have guests and their hospitality was outpouring.
The golden mascot was named after the hotel owner’s beloved golden retriever. Upon his passing, his owner made a donation to a local nonprofit in his honor. Maxwell is joined at the hotel by his trusty red companion, Maxine. (Best part? The adorable statues are available for purchase and 10% of all purchases are donated to the United Pet Fund.)
Rise and shine! The next morning, I went to breakfast in The Market which offered so many amazing choices including salmon, strawberry French toast (Yes, topped with cream and fresh strawberries!), eggs, and the list goes on. Sadly, I am relatively boring, and had fresh fruit, yogurt and coffee. Our meeting was soon underway and I cannot say enough about the attentive team! Our space was perfect with a lot of windows and natural light.
We went on to order a Caesar salad, stuffed calamari, and the seasonal risotto. (I like to say that Sean is a Caesar Salad Connoisseur of sorts as he always must order one if there is one to be had. He was thrilled that he didn’t have to ask for anchovies, they were already included! It’s the little things…) Everything was delicious, but don’t worry, we both saved room for our next stop… Young’s Jersey Dairy.
The front wrap around veranda is welcoming and completely charming! Throughout the hotel there are darling paintings of CORGIS (yes, the adorable fluffy dog), a corgi carousel, and corgi stuffed animals in the gift shop! (Fun Fact: the owner of the hotel has a corgi, hence the significance. In addition, he is fantastic with woodworking. Throughout the hotel, several of the wooden pieces were handcrafted by him!) I enjoyed an excellent breakfast in Ellie’s Restaurant & Bakery (the breakfast croissant was delicious!) and then I had to bid adieu and off to work I went.
Off of the main lobby there is a large art exhibition room. The focal point of the space is a standing, circular, structure that has video boards around the inside, and if you stand in the middle you feel you are a part of the movement.
Walking through the hotel, I couldn’t help but to take a minute to have a seat in one of the many lounge areas. Everything is artfully placed by mixing colors, textures, lighting, and of course, pieces of art! The seating areas are inviting, and you feel there is a greater community vibe in the air.
If you ever find yourself in Georga, don’t forget to take a moment to visit South Eden Plantation, you won’t regret it!
