The project was a complete demolition of the existing structure, which began in 2019. The hotel itself is a new, ground-up building with a partial basement and eight floors, including the rooftop pool and bar. The existing historic facade was preserved as part of the construction improvements.
“The beauty and elegance of the San Diego area is the driving force behind the design of the AC Hotel in the Gaslamp Quarter,” said Chuck Pagnotta, SVP, construction & design, The Briad Group. “The hotel’s design seeks to evoke a sense of sophistication and luxury, while also capturing the essence of the local environment.”
The property sits where a former TGI Fridays and Irish pub were once located. The TGI Fridays was one of the many franchises formerly owned and operated by The Briad Group, Pagnotta said.
Now catering to both the modern business and leisure traveler, local attractions include the San Diego convention center, Balboa Park, Petco Park, The San Diego International Airport and Seaport Village.
“The objective of the design is to create a luxurious and sophisticated hotel that reflects the beauty of the San Diego area,” Pagnotta said. “The hotel will provide guests with a unique and memorable experience, combining the latest in design and technology with premium materials and a stunning color palette.”
During the design process, there was a focus on premium, natural material selection, which, according to the SVP, is essential to achieve the desired aesthetic.
“The use of handcrafted wood-stained architectural details, natural marble flooring with champagne bronze metal insets, and a mother-of-pearl backsplash will provide a warm and inviting atmosphere. The selection of genuine leather seating will add a touch of luxury to the space,” Pagnotta said.
Color also played a role in crafting the space. The color palette of the hotel was inspired by the nearby San Diego shores, incorporating shades of taupe, white, and various blues and teals.
This palette, Pagnotta said, aims to create a calming and serene environment that is in harmony with the surrounding area.
“The AC Hotel will embrace the latest design trends, incorporating modern design elements and technology to enhance the guest experience,” Pagnotta noted. “From the use of cutting-edge lighting systems to the latest in entertainment technology, the hotel will offer guests a truly modern stay.”
The property includes a 24-hour fitness center, a media salon, an AC Lounge offering tapas and hand-crafted cocktails each evening, a rooftop pool and bar/restaurant, inspired by the beaches of Tulum, Mexico.
“Each AC Hotel features purposefully designed signature spaces that strike the perfect balance of form and function,” Pagnotta said. “Most notably, the AC Lounge invites guests and locals alike to collaborate during the day or to enjoy signature cocktails and tapas in the evening. The AC Kitchen offers a European-inspired breakfast each morning. All AC guestrooms and public spaces evoke a particular sophistication, featuring sleek furnishings, curated artwork and intuitive technology. The brand is dedicated to the details that matter most to guests during their travels.”
