A new level of luxury is coming to Greenville with the opening of the Hotel Hartness on the city’s east side. The hotel’s General Manager Albert Mertz has worked with global brands such as Ritz-Carlton and Mandarin Oriental. As an experienced hotelier, he has a distinguished thirty-year history in all aspects of hotel management. We asked Mertz to showcase the vision for this new bespoke resort which will include places to drink, dine, spa, and stay.
What was your inspiration for this project?
To curate a boutique hotel unlike anything in Greenville, which blends world-class luxury with a Southern sense of place.
What are the key elements that a luxury hotel should have?
Immaculate cleanliness, attention to detail, and unparalleled levels of personalized and engaging service.
What makes this hotel special? What are notable design details, and how were they chosen?
The anchor of Hotel Hartness is the actual Hartness home, which is very special given the family legacy. This traditional structure is surrounded by design-driven components such as the stylistically conceived Patterson Kitchen + Bar and state-of-the-art event spaces that encircle a manicured European courtyard.
The use of natural light in all guest areas creates an airy ambiance of relaxation, and the decor is eclectic, comfortable, and timeless. Our setting’s natural elements are characterized within the spaces through layers of texture, pattern, and thoughtful furnishings, finishes, and materials.
Art selection is critical as we will be showcasing local artists, both established and up-and-coming, to achieve a sense of place and promote the arts.
Would you say this is the first “five-star” level hotel in Greenville?
Undoubtedly. We seek to be the only ones who do what we do and how we do it.
What are you most proud of in the look of the hotel?
The design’s ability to harmoniously blend traditional with modern elements.
Regarding sustainability and design, is there anything of note?
Hay Creek Hotels and Hartness Development have been very keen on building a sustainable property. The use of reclaimed wood, highly efficient appliances, and an emphasis on a low carbon footprint in the construction process have been key.
Tell us about the spa, Patterson Kitchen + Bar, the suite details, and The Captain Bar.
The spa will provide a holistic experience concentrating on non-medical wellness practices offered in six treatment rooms and four suites. Signature treatments will enliven the senses while providing a feeling of well-being.
Patterson Kitchen + Bar will be a culinary temple with 200 seats, a chef’s table, and a private dining room. A glass box focusing on a farm-to-table approach that takes advantage of the on-site Hartness farm, it will showcase menus highlighting local Carolina’s bounty from land to sea. Some dishes will be interactive, so the experience is not merely serving plates, but also showcasing the finishing at the table for a unique dining experience.
The Captain, our jewel in the crown, will be an intimate bar with thirty seats. Housed in The Manor, it will feature high-level mixology and craft cocktails in a reclaimed 200-year-old barnwood environment. Poised to be a guest favorite, The Captain will be cozy and elegant.
Suites will offer oversized plush retreats with views of Greenville’s lush nature and a focus on guest privacy.
As for the original house on property, was anything preserved from the home to use for the hotel?
The 1970s home plays a critical role in providing the residential feel. Many components and accents have been repurposed to attain this and support our sustainability efforts. Examples are the fireplace in the living room, intricate moldings, wood floors, the reclaimed wood for The Captain’s walls, and the actual structure itself.
You’ve worked and stayed all over the world; what’s your favorite hotel destination?
Pamalican Island, a small island that is a part of the Cuyo Archipelago in northern Palawan in the Philippines.
DIY Design
- Always try to bring in a bit of nature and maximize natural light
- Mix decorating periods and elements, i.e., modern with traditional, cool metals with soft textures
- Search out unique artwork, whether from well-known or local, emerging artists
- Utilize lighting to set the mood, and look for non-traditional ways to light, i.e., under countertops
- Use pops of color in little touches like pillows and accessories
