Breakwater Unveils Ambitious Plans for I.M. Pei's Historic Hotel Renovation in Augusta

Revitalizing History: Breakwater's Ambitious Hotel Renovation in Augusta

In an exciting move that combines history with modern luxury, Breakwater, alongside its partner BR Investments, has announced plans to renovate the historic Ramada Hotel in downtown Augusta, Georgia. This iconic establishment originally opened in 1974 under the name Executive House Hotel and was rebranded as Ramada in 1999. What sets this hotel apart is its designer: the renowned architect I.M. Pei, best known for the Louvre Pyramid in Paris. This renovation aims to restore the hotel to its former glory while rebranding it as a premium, soft-branded property.

Under the guidance of Matt Brendle, the Managing Partner at Breakwater, the project will undertake a thorough transformation of the 175-room hotel. The objective is not only to revamp the interior and exterior but also to instill a sense of modern sophistication that pays homage to its storied past. Breakwater has enlisted the expertise of The Gettys Group for branding and interior design, ensuring that every facet of the renovation reflects quality and care.

In tandem with architectural enhancements, Rabun Architects will spearhead the architectural scope of the work. Known for their extensive experience in the hospitality sector, Rabun Architects will bring decades of expertise, having designed numerous luxury and boutique hotels across the nation.

Moreover, recognizing that culinary experiences are paramount to hotel stays, Breakwater has appointed an award-winning restaurateur from Charleston to curate the food and beverage program. The intention is to create a vibrant dining experience that caters to both hotel guests and local residents alike. This development underscores the importance of community engagement and aims to encourage local patronage.

Additionally, the hotel aims to extend its offerings by leasing adjacent street-level and courtyard space across Broad Street. This initiative is designed to enhance the guest experience through expanded outdoor areas and public spaces. "We have the chance to transform the east end of Broad Street into a dynamic destination," said Brendle, emphasizing a vision that encompasses vibrant public spaces and lively events.

The overarching ambition of this project is to make the hotel a new cultural hub in downtown Augusta, attracting both locals and visitors through engaging activities and quality services. The blend of enhanced public areas, a high-quality food and beverage program, and captivating events aims to establish the hotel as the beating heart of the community.

Breakwater itself is a hospitality investment and advisory company founded in 2019 and based in Charleston, South Carolina. Their approach includes a focus on reviving historic properties while providing modern amenities and experiences that resonate with today's travelers. Combined with the professionalism of The Gettys Group and Rabun Architects, the hotel renovation at Augusta is poised to become a notable case study in successful heritage conservation fused with contemporary hospitality.

As the project develops, anticipation will build for the eventual reopening of this historic landmark. The effort illustrates how thoughtful renovations can breathe new life into older structures, preserving their heritage while adapting them for future generations. Breaking ground on such an ambitious project not only showcases Breakwater's commitment to quality but also reflects a broader trend in the hospitality industry towards revitalizing historic locations.

As Augusta prepares for this transformation, stakeholders are hopeful that the newly renovated hotel will offer an enriched experience that pays respect to the past while paving the way for a vibrant future.