US: The Kessler Collection has purchased the historic Elks Temple building in downtown New Bern, North Carolina, for $2.25 million.
The transaction completed on 4 January with construction work set to start at the beginning of 2023. Plans involve transforming the property into a 50-bed luxury boutique hotel.
It will include a restaurant and bar, ballroom on the fifth floor, a speakeasy, and retail space. The project is expected to be completed in 2024.
Mark Kessler, president and COO of the Kessler Collection, said: “While each Kessler Collection hotel is unique to the location, it will feature signature Kessler Collection service and food and beverage, all while weaving in a thread of education throughout the hotel and guest experience.”
The Kessler team will work alongside the Historic Preservation Commission, State Preservation Office and National Park Service to renovate the property and preserve historic features.
Originally built in 1908 by the Elks Lodge, architect Earl Applegate purchased the site in 1987 with plans to build condominiums. Empire Properties bought the property in 2007 and began making renovations before the 2008 crash suspended plans. The building has sat vacant since.
The Kessler Collection portfolio comprises 13 hotels, 27 restaurants and lounges, seven spas and eight art galleries.
