The historic Hotel San Carlos in downtown Phoenix is poised for a comprehensive $80M renovation, as detailed in city documents. Originally constructed in 1928, the hotel has a rich history and was known for its innovative amenities at the time, including steam heat, elevators, and air-cooling.
Rockbridge Capital LLC, the hotel’s owner, plans an extensive renovation that encompasses both interior and exterior aspects of the building. The renovation project aims to increase the room count from 128 to 141. It will also involve the addition of several new features and facilities, including:
New Dining and Drinking Spaces:
- A new destination restaurant.
- A lobby bar.
- A basement speakeasy.
Historic Preservation and Restoration:
- Reintroduction of a historic palm room and accompanying tea court.
Recreational Facilities:
- Addition of a pool.
- Installation of rooftop amenities.
Meeting and Event Spaces:
- Introduction of 5KSF of meeting space.
Modernization and Infrastructure Improvements:
- Modernization of all guest rooms and bathrooms.
- Installation of new HVAC systems.
- Roof replacements.
- Elevator Repairs.
In addition to the renovation plans, the application specifies eligible expenses for historic preservation grant funding. These include the demolition of non-historic facilities, improvements to the building’s superstructure and exterior, roofing repairs, a new rear addition, stairways, and exterior lighting replacement. The city’s historic preservation commission unanimously recommended approval for the grant funding.
The renovation is planned to begin in Q4 2023, with a projected completion date in the first quarter of 2025. (Source)
