Kimpton Hotel Arras Opens in Downtown Ashville

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In a city known for its flourishing arts, music, culinary and outdoors scenes, a new downtown addition is a big deal. So when Kimpton Hotel Arras officially opened its doors on October 1, the 128-room boutique property made waves in the the mountain town, and rightfully so.

Photo credit: Cris Molina

Owned by Glenn Wilcox and John McKibbon and managed by McKibbon Hospitality, Kimpton Hotel Arras, was developed by McKibbon Places and represents a historic transformation of the former BB&T Bank building. Western North Carolina’s tallest building was originally built in 1965 and has remained an iconic fixture in the heart of downtown Asheville for more than half a century.

The design of the hotel rooms pay homage to the area’s artistic and natural influences, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains. The hotel’s art program features one-of-a-kind commissioned pieces from nearly 20 artisans and purveyors local to the region, and pieces displayed throughout the hotel’s public spaces and guest rooms and are incorporated into property tours, on-site events, and more.

Art is certainly a highlight in the hotel lobby, but the main attraction may be the culinary options and outdoor terrace space with city and mountain views. Two independent restaurants from Asheville-based Mandara Hospitality Group are led by Executive Chef Jordan Arace: Bargello, a Mediterranean restaurant with international influences and District 42, offering craft cocktails and shareable bites.

Photo credit: Cris Molina
Photo credit: Cris Molina

Some of the sweet guest amenities include morning coffee and tea service, nightly social hour, and mobile check-in. Guests can also order artisanal serenity cart filled with everything from books by Asheville authors to lavender sachets and evening cordials. Wellness amenities include a massage room, yoga area, fitness center, and complimentary PUBLIC bikes.

Photo credit: Cris Molina
Photo credit: Cris Molina

The mixed-use building also includes 54 one- and two-bedroom luxury condos ranging in size from 737-2,300 square feet. Ten of the residences will be available for short-term and long-term rentals.

For more information on Arras Residences, visit www.arrasresidences.com and for more information or to make a reservation at Kimpton Hotel Arras, check out www.hotelarras.com.