Charlotte's newest hotel The Mecklen has history written on its walls
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The lobby of The Mecklen Hotel in University City. Photo: Alexis Clinton/Axios
The Mecklen — a new hotel honoring Mecklenburg County's revolutionary roots — has opened in University City.
Why it matters: It's the first hotel in Charlotte that's part of Marriott's Tribute Portfolio and only the second in North Carolina, following The Casso in Raleigh.
Driving the news: Philadelphia-based GF Hotels & Resorts, which runs more than 160 hotels and resorts nationwide, invested $10 million to transform the former Holiday Inn at 8520 University Executive Park Dr.
- The new hotel now has a boutique feel that blends modern design with nods to Mecklenburg County's history.
What they're saying: "The Revolutionary War conflict actually unfolded in the forests of Mecklenburg County — right here in what's now University City," said Colleen Zapcic, the hotel's director of sales. "When General Cornwallis came to defeat Charlotte, he was met with a literal hornet's nest of rebellion."
Zoom in: The modern design nods to Charlotte's claim as the first city to declare independence from British rule— a theme woven through its 175 rooms and seven floors.
- Hornets appear in wallpapers and door ornaments, symbolizing the area's fierce spirit.
- Words like "rebel" and "rebellion" are etched into mirrors and subtly woven into patterns across the décor.
- The Bonnie Suite on the seventh floor honors Bonnie Ethel Cone, founder of UNC Charlotte, with design details celebrating her legacy of education and leadership.
Yes, and: "The design elements we added are in cool spots, and they tell you the story without throwing a history book at you as soon as you walk in the door. The goal is that people will come in, and our team would be equipped to start those conversations about what this hotel is," General manager Sean Baba told Axios.
Dig in: The revamped property features a 28-seat lobby bar and restaurant called Side Eye, serving elevated southern fare for breakfast and dinner — plus an extensive cocktail list, beer, and wine.
What's next: Rooms for The Mecklen Hotel are available to book now, starting at around $169 per night.
