Marriott Knoxville Downtown

Rockbridge announces the opening of the Marriott Knoxville Downtown, located at the iconic World's Fair Park. The 302-room, full-service hotel has undergone an expansive renovation that touched nearly every aspect of the property. Also unveiling is the Maker Exchange - a gathering space, artistic showcase and culinary scene designed to highlight and embrace Knoxville's creative maker community. Rockbridge, also owners of the neighboring Tennessean Hotel, led the revitalization of this destination that was originally built for the 1982 World's Fair.

Rockbridge purchased The Tennessean and the adjacent hotel with the vision of transforming the venue into a hub and gateway to Knoxville. The property was developed for this purpose for the 1982 World's Fair, welcoming travelers from around the world.

Strategically poised in the heart of the destination is the Maker Exchange - a gathering hub for the community - encompassing a grand Hearth Room with an oversized fireplace, an independent restaurant and bar offering a gastro pub vibe with creative fare, craft cocktails, and neighborhood brews; a local, independent coffee shop, the Curio, and meeting and event space, all offering a unique destination dedicated to the makers of Knoxville.

Hotel development company RBHD led the extensive hotel renovation with a world class team including local architect McCarty Holsaple McCarty, construction manager Blaine Construction, and New York-based interior design firm Stonehill Taylor collaborating to create a completely new destination, spotlighting local nuances and goods throughout. Guests are welcomed into the Great Room by a stunning woodgrain feature wall, referencing the careful hand of an artisan, while a double-sided fireplace with plush seating in the hotel lobby draws visitors further into the reception area. Each of the 302 guestrooms feature captivating views from large, floor-to-ceiling windows and all offer either single king or double king options for spacious accommodations. Furnishings contrast dark and light wood tones, and dark blue carpets feature motifs and textures reminiscent of glassmaking tools and patterns. Customized sconces and soft goods designed by local textile artists introduce subtle craft elements and create an inviting space throughout.

Rockbridge is working with Robin Easter Design to create and inspire the 12,000 square-foot Maker Exchange space and has engaged Knoxville's Dogwood Arts Alliance to bring the concept to life and connect with the maker community.

About Rockbridge

Rockbridge, a private investment firm with more than 22 years in business, has been investing in and building brands since 1999. The business has made over 280 real estate and hospitality investments in 38 states worth over $9.8 Billion in total capitalization and has over $2.7 Billion in assets under management. Rockbridge has built a family of hospitality, development, and management company brands, and its continued success is a result of its core Rocks: Relevance, Relationships, Resilience and Responsibility. recently, delivered several new independent hotels similar to the North Market Mixed-Use Project, including Emeline (Charleston, SC), In 2020, Rockbridge was honored for a third consecutive year as a top, philanthropic company in Central Ohio.

Hotel website