Imperial Hotel

Welcome, South Carolinians! When you’re looking for a place to stay that combines rich history with a prime location right here in our beautiful state, the Imperial Hotel in Greenville, SC, often comes to mind. This isn't just any building; it's a piece of Greenville's past, evolving to meet the needs of our community over the years. As a local, you understand the value of a place with character, and the Imperial Hotel certainly delivers on that front.

Originally established in 1912, the Imperial Hotel was Greenville's first skyscraper, a testament to the city's burgeoning commercial growth. It played a significant role in accommodating visitors during the textile industry's boom, including the massive Textile Expositions that drew thousands to our city. While its purpose has shifted over time, its impressive seven-story structure with its distinct buff-colored brick veneer over a steel frame remains a prominent feature of downtown Greenville. This article will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the Imperial Hotel, helping you understand its unique appeal and how it continues to serve the South Carolina community today.

The Imperial Hotel is strategically located at 201 W Washington St, Greenville, SC 29601, USA. This address places it right in the heart of downtown Greenville, a vibrant and walkable area that locals and visitors alike cherish. Being on West Washington Street means easy access to many of Greenville's most popular attractions, dining establishments, and entertainment venues.

For those driving, its downtown location means it's accessible via major roads leading into Greenville. While the original parking garage was unfortunately demolished in the 1980s, the surrounding downtown area offers various public parking options, making it convenient for those visiting by car. The hotel's central position also makes it highly accessible for those utilizing ride-sharing services or local public transport, if available, ensuring a smooth arrival and departure for all guests. Its proximity to other key downtown landmarks makes navigating the area on foot a pleasant experience, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.

While the Imperial Hotel has a storied past as a commercial hotel, its current incarnation serves a different, yet equally vital, role within the community. It is known to operate as Greenville Summit, providing housing for low-income and disabled individuals aged 55 and over. This adaptation reflects a commitment to serving the needs of the local population, offering a stable and supportive environment for its residents. Based on its history and current use, here are some of the services that have been associated with the building or are generally expected in similar accommodations, noting that the focus has shifted from a traditional transient hotel to a more residential model:

• 24-hour front desk services, offering assistance and support to residents and visitors.
• Laundry facilities, providing convenient on-site options for residents.
• Housekeeping services, which might be available on request or as part of a regular schedule for residents.
• Concierge services, potentially aiding residents with various needs and connecting them to local resources.
• Security measures to ensure the safety and well-being of all occupants.
• Accessibility features to accommodate disabled individuals, aligning with its current use.
• Common areas for residents to gather and socialize, fostering a sense of community.
• Maintenance services to ensure the upkeep and functionality of the building and its amenities.
• In-room amenities such as private bathrooms, refrigerators, and air conditioning units, contributing to comfortable living.

The Imperial Hotel, even in its evolved form, boasts several notable features and highlights that make it a distinctive part of the Greenville landscape.

• Historic Architecture: Built between 1911 and 1912, the Imperial Hotel is a significant example of early high-rise architecture in South Carolina. Its seven-story, U-shaped skyscraper design, with a buff-colored brick veneer over a steel frame, showcases the architectural styles of its era. It holds a place on the National Register of Historic Places, underscoring its historical importance.
• Original Details: Despite its transformation, the building retains some of its original charm. The first-floor lobby area reportedly features Terrazzo tile floors, marble stairs and baseboards, and brass rail detailing, offering a glimpse into its elegant past.
• Prime Downtown Location: Its address on West Washington Street positions it perfectly for access to downtown Greenville's vibrant scene. Residents and visitors are within easy reach of Falls Park on the Reedy, the Peace Center, diverse dining, and boutique shopping.
• Community-Focused Use: While no longer a traditional transient hotel, its current use as Greenville Summit, providing housing for seniors and disabled individuals, highlights its continued relevance and positive impact on the local community. This focus on providing essential housing services is a significant highlight for many locals who value community support.
• Evolutionary History: The Imperial Hotel’s journey from Greenville's first skyscraper and a bustling commercial hotel to its current role as a residential facility for vulnerable populations is a unique aspect of its story, reflecting the adaptive nature of historic urban buildings.

Given the Imperial Hotel's current primary function as a residential facility for seniors and disabled individuals (known as Greenville Summit), direct promotional offers typically associated with transient hotels (like weekend getaway packages or seasonal discounts) may not be applicable in the traditional sense. However, for its residents, the "promotions" would center around the benefits and affordability of its long-term housing. Any special offers for prospective residents would likely be related to housing assistance programs, subsidies, or specific intake availability.

For those interested in its historic significance or its current community role, the best approach would be to inquire directly about available housing or information related to its preservation. Any "promotions" for general visitors would perhaps be through local historical societies or heritage tours that might highlight the building's architectural significance, rather than an offer for a stay.

If you wish to learn more about the Imperial Hotel, whether for its historical significance or its current role in the Greenville community, here is the direct contact information available:

Address: 201 W Washington St, Greenville, SC 29601, USA

Please note that specific phone numbers for general inquiries or direct reservations may vary given its current operation as a residential facility (Greenville Summit). For the most accurate and up-to-date contact information regarding its residential services, it would be advisable to search for "Greenville Summit" or "Imperial Hotel Greenville SC" and any associated management companies. Online reviews from real customers generally relate to the building's historical presence or, more recently, its function as a residential facility, offering insights into its environment from a resident's perspective.

For locals in South Carolina, the Imperial Hotel is much more than just a building; it’s a living piece of our state’s history, right here in Greenville. Its story reflects the evolution of our cities, from the industrial boom of the early 20th century to a modern focus on community support and inclusive living. As a local, knowing that a landmark like the Imperial Hotel has been preserved and adapted to serve a crucial need for seniors and disabled individuals in our community is something to appreciate. It's a testament to Greenville’s ability to blend its rich heritage with contemporary needs.

While you might not book a weekend stay in the traditional sense, understanding its role means understanding a vital part of Greenville’s social fabric. Its central downtown location makes it a familiar and accessible landmark, a point of reference as you navigate the city. For anyone interested in the architectural heritage of South Carolina, or the progressive ways in which historic buildings are being repurposed, the Imperial Hotel offers a fascinating case study. It stands as a reminder of where Greenville has been and where it continues to go, always adapting and always rooted in its community. So, the next time you're downtown, take a moment to appreciate the Imperial Hotel – a true Greenville original.