MCLEAN, Va.—Hilton Worldwide today announced the signing of a dual-branded Hilton Garden Inn and Home2 Suites by Hilton hotel in Columbia, S.C. Franchisee, Gervais Street Hotel LLC and development and management company, CN Hotels Inc., will rebrand, convert, and expand the historic Clarion Hotel Downtown to a 110-room Hilton Garden Inn and 100-room Home2 Suites. This development is slated to open in 2016 and will join Hilton Worldwide’s current portfolio of 16 Hilton Worldwide dual-branded hotels.
“The signing of the dual-branded Hilton Garden Inn and Home2 Suites Columbia Downtown marks a strategic implementation for us in a top market,” said Phil Cordell, global head, focused service and Hampton brand management, Hilton Worldwide. “Dual-branded hotels allow us to uniquely offer guests a variety of accommodation options, while also providing franchisees cost and operational efficiencies.”
Situated in the hub of Columbia’s business district, the soon-to-be converted hotel is central to the State Capitol building, University of South Carolina and Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center.
To bring a sense of community to the space, the two hotels will share some amenities and services, while still maintaining each brand’s individuality. Hilton Garden Inn, known for its upscale yet affordable accommodations, will offer 5,500 square feet of meeting space, an outdoor pool and Carolina’s Restaurant that will reflect the local Southern flair. Home2 Suites, Hilton Worldwide’s mid-tier, all-suite hotel brand, will offer flexible and comfortable modern suites, 800 square feet of meeting space as well as a commitment to sustainable products and operations. Sharing the indoor pool, outdoor garden, and fire pit plus free WiFi throughout all guestrooms, the hotel will take advantage of the best of both brands.
“We look forward to bringing together these two Hilton Worldwide brands, which are known for their innovation and guest satisfaction,” said Jayesh N. Patel, vice president, CN Hotels Inc. “With the new dual-branded Home2 Suites and Hilton Garden Inn, Columbia will have great appeal to business and leisure travelers alike.”
Hilton Garden Inn guests will enjoy a 24-hour business center with Print Spots remote printing, state-of-the-art fitness center, and an indoor pool. Carolina’s Restaurant will offer a full cooked-to-order breakfast, dinner, cocktails, and evening room service. The Pavilion Pantry is open 24 hours and features a complete selection of salty snacks, sweet treats, cold beverages as well as freshly prepared, frozen, and microwaveable packaged items. Each guestroom boasts the brand’s signature bedding featuring fresh, white duvets, and crisp linens; a spacious and clutter free work desk, with an ergonomic desk chair; and an in-room “hospitality center” with a mini fridge, microwave oven, and Keurig coffee maker.
Guests experience easy access to technology, inviting community spaces, and trademark Home2 Suites amenities standard in all properties such as: the Oasis lobby area, the Home2 MKT for grab-and-go items, and the Spin2 Cycle a combined laundry and fitness area. A complimentary continental breakfast is also available at the Inspired Table that includes a variety of morning favorites like a hot breakfast sandwich. The hotel has many outdoor features including: a heated saline pool, gas grills for guests’ uses and a fire pit. All Home2 Suites by Hilton properties are pet-friendly.
