Columbia’s Exciting New Boutique Hotel: The Shepherd Hotel Columbia Vista
Columbia, South Carolina, is buzzing with excitement as a historic fire station transforms into a charming boutique hotel! The Shepherd Hotel Columbia Vista, developed by Raines, has officially broken ground, promising to bring a unique vibe to The Vista district. This cozy spot is expected to open its doors in the fall of 2025, making it a highly anticipated addition to the city.
Embracing History with a Modern Twist
The heart of this project lies in its location at 1001 Senate Street, right in the thriving Vista area. This district is well-known for its lively atmosphere with close proximity to popular spots like the University of South Carolina, the South Carolina Statehouse, and the Colonial Life Arena. The newly reimagined hotel will occupy the historic Columbia Central Fire Station, one of the city’s oldest fire stations, ensuring that the rich history of the building will not be forgotten.
A Unique Vision for Inclusivity
The Shepherd Hotel Columbia Vista isn’t just about providing a place to stay; it’s about creating opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Inspired by co-founder Rick Hayduk‘s children with Down syndrome, the Shepherd brand aims to offer meaningful employment through partnerships with local programs. In Columbia, they’ll work with the University of South Carolina’s CarolinaLIFE program, designed to empower young adults with intellectual disabilities to pursue fulfilling careers.
“The Shepherd Hotel Columbia Vista celebrates our passion for the hospitality industry and our commitment to our communities,” shared David Tart, managing partner at Raines. He genuinely echoes the heartwarming mission behind this project, emphasizing the desire to provide valuable skills for students and young adults alike, especially in college towns.
Modern Amenities Meet Historic Charm
The boutique hotel will feature 59 guest rooms, designed to keep both style and comfort in mind. Guests will enjoy modern amenities including a fitness center, a cozy lounge area, and a boardroom for meetings. Plus, valet parking will make it even easier for visitors to explore the surrounding area!
On the culinary side, Kevin Johnson, a James Beard nominee and University of South Carolina alumnus, will oversee the hotel’s food and beverage offerings. Guests can look forward to a delicious on-site restaurant that will serve a variety of small plates, craft cocktails, and a robust selection of beers and wines. This restaurant will cater not only to hotel guests but also to locals eager to enjoy some good food and drinks.
A Commitment to Quality and Community
Leading the construction for The Shepherd Hotel Columbia Vista is Mashburn Construction, who is excited about the success of this project. Lee Mashburn, president of Mashburn Construction, expressed, “We’re proud to be a part of this project, which blends our passion for historic preservation and our commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality spaces.”
The collaboration between Raines and Mashburn Construction marks a significant moment—this hotel will be the second Shepherd Hotel in South Carolina, following the successful opening in downtown Clemson in September 2022.
A Bright Future for Columbia’s Hospitality Scene
As construction gets underway, Columbia has a lot to look forward to. The Shepherd Hotel Columbia Vista is set to enhance the area’s local flavor, create job opportunities for those facing barriers in the job market, and shine a light on the importance of inclusivity in the hospitality industry.
So, whether you’re a resident or a visitor, keep your eyes peeled for this exciting addition to Columbia’s skyline—it’s sure to offer not just a place to rest your head, but a heartfelt story of community, inclusivity, and beautiful history!
