The Omni Charlotte Hotel is the latest to become a more experiential property, kicking off a $26M redevelopment last week that will reimagine both the common areas and the rooms. Moncur Design Associates Inc. and CT + C Design Studio are spearheading the effort at the Uptown hotel.

According to Omni Charlotte Hotel general manager David Palumbo, the new design takes its inspiration from the history of the Carolina Gold Rush (which started with the discovery of the 17-pound gold nugget in Cabarrus County in 1799), as well as the city’s more modern standing as a top banking center. The hotel’s spaces, including the exterior porte cochère and the artwork in the guest rooms, will be refreshed with custom fabrics and finishes imbued with gold and silver tones.

The redevelopment of the roof will add nearly 3K SF, including a new bar and grill, and double-sided LED television screens, each 22 feet wide by 12 feet high, with a high enough resolution to  be seen from the surrounding area of businesses and entertainment venues.

The new design will also open the front exterior wall of the hotel to allow more natural light to enter. The entry’s façade will feature a glass exterior, as well as linear panels on the ceiling with a reflective metal wall serving as the focal point, giving the hotel a more prominent street presence.