Grand Willow hotel to rise 7 floors over BullStreet District

Vulcan Real Estate Development has unveiled its vision for the Grand Willow hotel, a new boutique destination planned for Columbia’s BullStreet District at 1571 Freed St.

The developers say the hotel is designed to embody Southern elegance reimagined for the modern era.

Grand Willow hotel will feature 136 guest rooms, 5,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space, and a full-service dining and leisure program designed to serve travelers and the Columbia community, according to a new release.

Vulcan Real Estate Development chose the BullStreet District for its mix of residential, retail and office spaces; its proximity to the developing USC School of Medicine and the state’s first neurological rehabilitation and treatment center; and its growing reputation as a hub of entertainment and culture, the news release stated. Together, these elements make BullStreet one of the most transformative mixed-use developments in the Southeast and a natural setting for Columbia’s next landmark hotel, the company says.

“Grand Willow is designed to set a new standard for hospitality in Columbia,” Todd Canter, managing partner of Vulcan Real Estate Development, said in the release. “We wanted to create something that goes far beyond the traditional hotel experience — a place that feels both elevated and authentic, where guests can find balance, comfort and connection.”

Development partners include Hughes Development, the firm behind the BullStreet District; Lorie Giambarberee of Vintage Zinc Interiors; Steve Berry as lead architect; McCrory Construction as general contractor; and Emerald Hospitality Associates as hotel operations and sales consultant. The hotel will be part of the Hilton Collection.

“Emerald Hospitality is proud to be selected to manage the Grand Willow hotel, an exceptional hotel, restaurant and conference complex anchoring Columbia’s transformative BullStreet District,” James R. Gerish, chairman and CEO of Emerald Hospitality Associates, said in the releasae. “The Grand Willow will deliver a refined boutique experience that reflects both the character of the community and the standards of a four-star destination. This development represents the 31st property within the Emerald portfolio and underscores our continued growth as a trusted partner in the management of upscale, independent-spirited hotels.”

“As creative director for Grand Willow, I’m honored to bring Vintage Zinc Interiors’ signature design philosophy to this remarkable new destination on BullStreet,” Lorie Giambarberee, founder and lead designer of the firm, said in the release. “Our vision blends refined elegance with a deep sense of place — creating a luxury experience that celebrates Columbia’s charm while offering guests a unique space to work, rest and play, thoughtfully layered with locally inspired art, luxurious amenities and a vibrant atmosphere of connection and entertainment.”

Grand Willow will rise seven stories, offering expansive views of the BullStreet District and Columbia skyline. A defining feature of the property will be its wellness-focused pool and patio area, envisioned as a serene retreat within the urban environment. The space will include a lap pool, cold plunge pool, sauna and private cabanas offering in-cabana spa treatments.

The hotel’s culinary program will include a lobby café serving coffee, tea, pastries and light bites in a vibrant setting that spills out onto the pool and patio area, where guests can be served al fresco throughout the day. An upscale restaurant on the seventh floor will feature locally inspired, seasonal dishes, according to the release. Guests will dine among soft lighting, linen-draped tables and curated artwork, with a wine list that complements each course. The hotel will have a rooftop bar.

“The city of Columbia is proud to officially welcome Vulcan Development and the Hilton boutique hotel to the bustling BullStreet District,” Mayor Daniel Rickenmann said in the release. “Todd Canter and his team have worked diligently to bring this full-service hotel to fruition, and we know their focus on high-quality development and attention to detail will be apparent when this project is completed. With our year-over-year tourism numbers growing rapidly, the timing is absolutely right to bring this amenity to the Capital City.”

Grand Willow hotel also will create jobs, generate tourism revenue and contribute to Columbia’s vision of a walkable, mixed-use urban district that encourages living, working and leisure, the release stated.

“The Grand Willow hotel provides another option for the growing number of visitors and those relocating to Richland County,” Richland County Chair and Columbia Area Development Partnership Co-Chair Jesica Mackey said in the release. “Projects like this one boost the Columbia area’s appeal and competitiveness. We are glad to support Vulcan Real Estate Development in this latest endeavor within our community.”

The project is scheduled for completion in late 2027, the release said.