SAN FRANCISCO, Calif.—Commune Hotels & Resorts continues to strategically expand the portfolio of Thompson Hotels in the country’s fastest growing cities. The lifestyle hotel brand is being ushered into Nashville by MarketStreet Enterprises, the master developer of Music City’s The Gulch neighborhood, with AJ Capital Partners and The Berger Company. The 224-key Thompson Nashville, expected to open in summer 2016, will be a valued amenity and social anchor in the epicenter of The Gulch, a vibrant mixed-use neighborhood that boasts more than 50 restaurants, retail stores, and entertainment venues. The Gulch development plan was launched 15 years ago by MarketStreet Enterprises.
Situated in the heart of The Gulch, Thompson Nashville will inhabit the ‘crown jewel’ site that completes the development of the city block that is home to iconic music venue The Station Inn and The 404 Hotel and Kitchen. It will feature a signature ground floor restaurant and boutique retail space. Twelve stories above the intersection of 11th and 12th Avenues will be a vibrant indoor-outdoor rooftop set against the backdrop of panoramic views from downtown to South of Broadway (SoBro) and featuring lounge seating. Open to the public, the space will be complete with a stand-up bar, food offerings, and a venue for private events.
Architectural design of Thompson Nashville is being led by Nashville-based Hastings Architecture Associates LLC. New York City-based Parts and Labor Design will create customized interiors. Site work for the project is anticipated to begin in early 2015.
Since launching The Gulch development 15 years ago, MarketStreet Enterprises has built a reputation for developing quality projects that respect the unique character of their environment and enhance the vitality of Nashville’s urban core. The Berger Company, based in New Orleans, brings over 40 years of experience in real estate development and investment, including an impressive track record of hospitality projects. AJ Capital Partners, based in Chicago, is a preeminent developer, owner, and manager of distinctive hotels and resorts around the world.
“The Gulch is the perfect location for a Thompson Hotel—a brand that respects the unique character of its environment—as it sits within close proximity to Nashville’s premier destinations and will become another marquee amenity for the home-grown urban neighborhood,” said Jay Turner, managing director, MarketStreet Enterprises. “With construction of Gulch Crossing—our new Class A office building—in full swing, this is an opportune time to introduce an exceptional hospitality component.”
“Nashville is a wonderful city and The Gulch is one of the most dynamic and interesting neighborhoods anywhere. The industrial heritage, growing collection of boutique retailers and entertainment venues, and high-end urban residences provides an environment perfect for a truly special hotel—one that is committed to immersing itself into its surroundings,” said Ben Weprin, CEO, AJ Capital Partners. “Nashville has evolved tremendously from when I lived there. We are proud to be developing a hotel that reflects today’s Nashville and are excited to be working with such wonderful partners to create something special for locals and visitors alike.”
“We view a hotel development in the vibrant Gulch neighborhood as a very exciting opportunity,” said Brandon Berger, principal, The Berger Company. “Nashville has emerged as one of the most attractive markets in the country, and the location and timing of this particular project allows for a truly first rate hotel in this incredible city.”
“Nashville is a booming city by various economic standards, including employment, construction, and the influx of young professionals, but it’s the culture and atmosphere developing in The Gulch that led us all to believe that Thompson Hotels was the right fit for the neighborhood,” said Niki Leondakis, CEO, Commune Hotels & Resorts. “We’re honored that ownership chose Thompson Hotels, and for the opportunity for our hotel to sit so prominently on this iconic block within The Gulch.”