Historic Guardian Building to Become Rock Hill’s First Inclusive Boutique Hotel

A historic landmark in downtown Rock Hill is slated for a transformative revival. Raines, in partnership with The Warren Norman Company, Noble Food and Pursuits, Comporium, and WinthropLIFE, has announced the development of The Lantern Hotel Rock Hill. Scheduled to open in the fall of 2026, the project marks the city’s first boutique hotel and carries a distinct social mission: providing meaningful career pathways for individuals with disabilities.

The core of The Lantern concept is a commitment to inclusive hospitality, modeled after its sister property in Columbia, South Carolina. By partnering with the WinthropLIFE program, the hotel will serve as a training ground where individuals with differing abilities can gain professional skills in the service industry.

The hotel will breathe new life into a storied site. Located in the former Andrew Jackson Hotel, most recently known as the Guardian Building, the development is a “return to use” project that preserves the historic character of the architecture while introducing modern luxury.

Planned Amenities Include:

• 56 Guest Rooms: Designed with unique boutique aesthetics.

• The Noble Restaurant & Bar: High-end culinary services curated by Noble Food and Pursuits.

• Exclusive Spaces: A private speakeasy, a private dining room, and dedicated event spaces.

• Membership Program: A first-of-its-kind offering for the Rock Hill community.

A Collaborative Community Investment

The project represents a collaborative effort among local and regional leaders. The Warren Norman Company and Noble Food and Pursuits are focusing on the quality of the development and the culinary experience, while the telecommunications firm Comporium has joined as a partner to support downtown revitalization and community quality of life.