Following an extensive, multimillion-dollar reinvention, The Ansonborough Charleston in South Carolina—sourced, co-developed, capitalised and managed by Wright Investments, Inc. and developed by Continental Hospitality Group—will celebrate its official grand opening on September 3, 2024.
Formerly known as The Ansonborough Inn, this intimate luxury inn, conveniently located in the heart of the city’s historic downtown district, will debut as a homebase for travellers seeking to discover genuine Charleston hospitality and an authentic neighbourhood experience. Striking a balance between honouring history and embracing modern charm, The Ansonborough proudly embodies the vibrant spirit of Charleston’s oldest neighbourhood established in the 1700s by Lord Anson, a British Royal Navy Officer who won the neighbourhood in a game of cards, according to lore.
“This is a momentous occasion as we officially open our doors and introduce dynamic new energy into the property,” said Larry Wright Jr., president and CEO of Wright Investments, Inc. “This building has stood as a cornerstone of the neighbourhood for over a century, and we humbly embraced the responsibility of preserving its rich legacy throughout this renovation.”
Generous Guest Rooms, Neighbourhood Bar and Private Rooftop Scene
A uniquely Charleston guest experience begins upon arrival into a newly transformed, intimate lobby and communal area. Thoughtfully crafted with ample open seating, it fosters interaction and is a hub for social gatherings. The hotel’s 45 guest rooms are among the most spacious in the city, with 20 percent exceeding 600 square feet and an average size of 475 square feet. A desirable mix of accommodations ranges from inviting, standard luxury guest rooms to a wide variety of large suite configurations. Each room has a distinct personality and charm, many with 16- to 20-foot-high ceilings and exposed brick and timbers, adding warmth and richness to each stay.
The hotel boasts the newly added Scarborough & Squirrel Bar, which offers elevated light fare and artisanal cocktails, beers, and wines, along with a poker room paying homage to Captain Anson’s legacy that’s tucked away behind a discreet bookcase enclave. The new Rooftop Garden is an exclusive-to-guest outdoor oasis offering comfortable seating areas, fire pits and surround sound—all enveloped in a lush landscape and with views of Charleston’s ubiquitous church steeples and the Cooper River Bridge. For guests that desire more space, the 871-square-foot Admiral Suite offers apartment-style accommodations complete with a walk-in shower, Peloton Bike, dining table and gas fireplace, perfect for special occasions or entertaining.
Distinct, Historical Design
The Ansonborough Charleston was originally built as a three-story stationer’s warehouse circa 1901 and has been thoughtfully restored by award-winning designer, Studio 11 Design. The Ansonborough’s new personality has been brought to life through an entirely new visual landscape that’s rooted in its history. Guest room highlights include antique subway tile mirror backsplashes, brushed gold fixtures, mosaic tile flooring and Skara Brae quartz countertops. Adorned with palmettos, crepe myrtles and local flora, and featuring exposed heart pine beams, local fire red brick, historic antiques and a vast collection of original artwork, the hotel’s storied past echoes throughout the renovation.
“After a major renovation and repositioning, the Ansonborough is now a special place to be discovered. We are excited to add to Charleston’s incredible and evolving legacy, a truly unique luxury hotel to be discovered and enjoyed for many years to come,” said Adam Valente, president of Continental Hospitality Group.
“Throughout the renovation process, our goal was to unearth the property’s rich history and distinctive character that resides within its wall. The property now balances historic and timeless charm with elegance and modern comfort,” said General Manager Carrie Huston. “It’s truly gratifying to see this final vision take shape, and we eagerly look forward to extending a warm welcome to guests from around the world.”
