Located on the eastern seaboard of the United States, the AC Hotel Savannah Historic District stands on the banks of the Savannah River, just a short distance from the oldest neighbourhoods of this eighteenth-century city.
The project received an Honourable Mention in the Commercial category of the 2026 Tile Competition.
Led by lead interior designer Austin M. Brown of Design Continuum Inc., in collaboration with GMShay Architects, the project establishes a distinctive contemporary visual identity that engages closely with the bustling commercial port.
Completed in April 2025 by construction company Balfour Beatty, the hotel draws its central design inspiration from its proximity to the water and the area’s maritime heritage.
The interior design reinterprets the aesthetic of early wooden shipping containers, juxtaposing it with the satin finishes of modern cargo vessels that navigate the waterway every day. This narrative is expressed through a clean, minimalist design language, enriched by linear details, leather furnishings, warm wood tones and contrasting metal elements.
The careful selection of surface coverings creates a sense of continuity throughout the hotel’s different spaces.
In the expansive communal areas, including the lobby, market area, corridors and eighth-floor rooftop bar, Emilceramica’s On Square collection in the Sienna Concrete finish provides a continuous concrete-effect surface that balances the various textures and enhances the sense of spaciousness. The palette becomes softer in the suites and private spaces, where lighter, more delicate textured finishes introduce a welcoming, homely warmth.
The bathroom floors in the presidential suite feature Cerim Antique Marble by Florim. On the guestroom floors, the areas housing water refill stations for guests are clad in Overcome porcelain stoneware by Leonardo Ceramica. Finally, Marble Experience slabs by Italgraniti Group were used for the flooring in the public restrooms.
Environmental considerations informed the entire construction and design process, enabling the development to achieve the prestigious LEED Platinum certification.
A carefully curated art programme complements the architecture and natural light, evoking the movement of the river. Photographs by architectural photographer Lauren Rubinstein capture the way history, landscape and interior design come together to create a sophisticated hospitality environment with a strong sense of place.
