Rock Hill, SC, February 6, 2026
The Lantern Hotel Rock Hill, a new boutique hotel, is set to open in downtown Rock Hill in fall 2026, transforming the historical Andrew Jackson Hotel into a space focused on inclusive employment and community revitalization. This $30 million project, developed in partnership with various local businesses, aims to create job opportunities for individuals with disabilities while modernizing the historic architecture. The hotel will feature 56 rooms, a restaurant, bar, event spaces, and more, contributing significantly to the economic growth of the area.
Lantern Hotel Set to Illuminate Rock Hill, SC in 2026
A new boutique hotel aims to revitalize downtown and promote inclusive employment.
Rock Hill, South Carolina – The revitalization of downtown Rock Hill is about to take a significant step forward with the opening of The Lantern Hotel Rock Hill, expected in fall 2026. This ambitious $30 million project aims to transform the historic Andrew Jackson Hotel, also known as the Guardian Building, into a contemporary boutique hotel that prioritizes inclusive employment and the adaptive reuse of historic architecture. This project not only highlights the resilience of local entrepreneurial efforts but also aims to create significant job opportunities in the region.
In a noteworthy collaboration, Raines, a hospitality management, development, and investment company, is teaming up with The Warren Norman Co., Noble Food and Pursuits, Comporium, and WinthropLIFE for this venture. The new hotel will boast 56 rooms and will feature a restaurant, bar, private speakeasy, event space, private dining room, and membership-based amenities. A standout feature of this project is its commitment to employing individuals with disabilities through a partnership with Winthrop University’s WinthropLIFE program, which supports students with intellectual and developmental disabilities as they transition into the workforce.
Development Partners Driving the Project
Key players in this initiative are pivotal to the vision for The Lantern Hotel. The development is a collaborative effort among prominent names in the local business community, demonstrating what can be achieved when entrepreneurs focus on social responsibility while also cultivating economic growth. The leadership of General Manager Rick Hayduk, who has a deep personal commitment to inclusive employment due to his daughter with Down syndrome, exemplifies the potential for private enterprise to positively impact community wellbeing.
Focus on Inclusive Employment
The emphasis on inclusive employment positions The Lantern Hotel as more than just a hospitality venue; it represents a bridge to workforce integration for individuals with disabilities. This advancement can nurture a more diverse professional environment and inspire other businesses in Rock Hill to adopt similar models. The partnership with WinthropLIFE is especially significant given the evolving conversation about corporate social responsibility in today’s economy.
Contributing to Downtown Revitalization
The development aligns with broader efforts to revitalize downtown Rock Hill. Such projects can enhance local economic conditions, attract tourism, and encourage investment in small businesses. By creating a boutique hotel that appeals to a wide clientele while promoting community involvement, stakeholders hope to stimulate further growth in the surrounding area.
Features of The Lantern Hotel Rock Hill
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Downtown Rock Hill, South Carolina |
| Opening Date | Fall 2026 |
| Number of Rooms | 56 |
| Facilities | Restaurant, bar, private speakeasy, event space, private dining room, membership-based amenities |
| Employment Focus | Inclusive employment through partnership with WinthropLIFE program |
| Development Partners | Raines, The Warren Norman Co., Noble Food and Pursuits, Comporium, WinthropLIFE |
Conclusion
The Lantern Hotel Rock Hill represents a beacon of hope and innovation in the local business landscape, highlighting how strategic development can align with social values. As the city gears up for its opening in 2026, community members are encouraged to support this and other local businesses that contribute to Rock Hill’s economic vitality. With collaborative efforts driving such initiatives, the future looks promising for Rock Hill SC’s small business environment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is The Lantern Hotel Rock Hill?
The Lantern Hotel Rock Hill is a new boutique hotel set to open in downtown Rock Hill, South Carolina, in fall 2026. It aims to redevelop the historic Andrew Jackson Hotel into a 56-room hotel that emphasizes inclusive employment and adaptive reuse of historic architecture.
Who are the development partners for this project?
The development is a collaboration between Raines, The Warren Norman Co., Noble Food and Pursuits, Comporium, and WinthropLIFE.
What facilities will the hotel offer?
The hotel will feature a restaurant, bar, private speakeasy, event space, private dining room, and membership-based amenities.
How does the hotel plan to support individuals with disabilities?
The hotel will employ individuals with disabilities through a partnership with Winthrop University’s WinthropLIFE program, which supports students with intellectual and developmental disabilities as they transition into the workforce.
Who will manage The Lantern Hotel Rock Hill?
General Manager Rick Hayduk, who has advocated for expanding career opportunities for people with disabilities, will lead the hotel. His interest in inclusive employment was influenced by his daughter, who has Down syndrome.
Is there a similar project in another city?
Yes, The Lantern Hotel Rock Hill follows a similar concept to the 59-room Lantern Hotel Columbia, which is scheduled to open this month inside Columbia’s historic Central Firehouse.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Rock Hill’s First Boutique Hotel Opens with a Mission
Rock Hill, SC, Experiences Rapid Growth in Million-Dollar Property Transactions
The Lantern Hotel Set to Revitalize Downtown Rock Hill
Local Businesses Unite to Launch The Lantern Hotel in Rock Hill
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
