May 12, 2025

Richmond Hill, GA — May 7, 2025 — The Kessler Collection is breaking ground today on its newest venture: a 200-room, dual-branded Courtyard and Residence Inn by Marriott located at the primary entrance to Heartwood at Richmond Hill—a 20,000-acre, master-planned community along the I-95 corridor. Scheduled to open in late 2026, the hotel is situated near the former winter residence and estate of Henry and Clara Ford. Drawing inspiration from the region’s rich heritage and tradition of Southern hospitality, the design blends Lowcountry architectural elegance with subtle nods to Ford’s enduring craftsmanship.

The hotel’s design offers a reimagined take on classic Lowcountry architecture, incorporating automotive-inspired elements throughout. From a cozy yet sophisticated lobby to a calming color palette and carefully curated décor, the property will create an inviting ambiance. Warm wood accents, soft lighting, and vibrant pops of color complete the space. To reinforce a sense of place and local heritage, the interiors will also feature curated artwork and historical elements celebrating Richmond Hill’s scenic beauty and its connection to Henry Ford.

“With this project, we’re not just building a hotel—we’re bringing back the magic of the great American road trip,” said Richard Kessler, Chairman and CEO of The Kessler Collection. “This property will offer guests an inspired stay that nods to the romance of the open road while delivering the best-in-class service that defines both the Marriott and Kessler brands.”

Designed for both families and business travelers, the hotel will be a dynamic hub along the I-95 corridor, ideally positioned to meet the growing demand in the rapidly expanding Richmond Hill community. The hotel will support travel tied to the new high school, state-of-the-art hospital, manufacturing facilities, and other emerging businesses, while also offering meeting space for corporate gatherings and community events. Adjacent to the hotel, The Kessler Collection is also developing a drive-through Starbucks, scheduled to open in late 2025. Together, these projects are set to create more than 100 new jobs and energize the area’s continued growth.

This expansion builds on The Kessler Collection’s rich legacy in Savannah, where its iconic hotels have played a defining role in shaping the city’s hospitality and cultural landscape. The new Richmond Hill property brings Kessler’s signature blend of artful design and distinctive experiences to a vibrant corner of coastal Georgia.

“We have a long history of developing in Savannah and the surrounding area, and we are proud to continue investing in this region with Omega Construction as one of our partners and the hotel’s general contractor,” said Mark Kessler, President & Chief Operating Officer of The Kessler Collection. “Expanding into Richmond Hill is a natural next step that positions us to carry our legacy forward and create an elevated destination for this growing community.”

ABOUT THE KESSLER COLLECTION

The Kessler Collection is a dynamic, family-led hospitality brand born in 1984 out of Founder Richard C. Kessler’s creative vision to bring profound beauty and art to life in an elevated setting. A destination place maker in both established and emerging locales across the South including Asheville, North Carolina’s Biltmore Village; St. Augustine, Florida; and downtown Orlando, Florida; the brand can also be credited for significant development and transformation in Greenville, South Carolina and Savannah, Georgia, building the foundation for new urban legacies in those cities. Guided by a sense of beauty, discovery and inspiration, Kessler creates a portfolio of carefully curated living museums that awaken the inner collector in its guests and visitors. Kessler’s commitment to art & culture, community enrichment, music, and distinctive design attracts visitors that value authenticity, original thinking, and curiosity to its many hotels, restaurants, and additional experiential brands. For more information about The Kessler Collection, please visit kesslercollection.com or call 888.472.6312.