Earlier this week, we found out the Holiday Inn on Hillsborough St. will be replaced with a mixed-use luxury hotel + apartment project. The news about this icon to some, eyesore to others has created quite a stir among Raleigh locals, and you, our readers, had a lot to say online. Let’s dive a bit deeper.
Here’s what we know:
This hotel landmark has been holding its cylinder shape in downtown Raleigh since 1969. Although its circular form seems space-efficient, some argue that the shape is impractical.
New York developer Tidal Real Estate Partners (which purchased the property in November 2021) plans to build a 20-story, mixed-use building in its place. The development will include apartments, luxury hotel rooms, a parking deck, retail space + restaurants. Tidal will submit its site plans to the city on Fri., Feb. 18, and if approved, expects to break ground at the end of 2023.
So, are Raleighites excited about this new development? It depends on who you ask.
Find out what locals are saying on Facebook and via email:
“The current hotel is quite unattractive. Happy to see something new coming in its place.” – Patrick B.
“Iconic piece of Raleigh history. I hate to see it torn down... it could be renovated into something really cool.” – Dana B.
“I don’t know anyone who frequents this building presently and raves about it. We have to build up and make use of the limited space there is downtown. It would be nice if they did something even more architecturally interesting though.” – Whitney B.
“It’s both! Yes, it’s an eyesore, but it is also an iconic piece of downtown history. It’s also a bit of unusual architecture that very much reflects its time.” – Jon C.
“One of a kind in our city… it would be interesting if the developer could incorporate some of the architecture into the new structure.” – Suzanne B.