Hotel Merrydelle
Gateway Jax Signs Agreement with Marriott International and The Indigo Road Hospitality Group for Hotel Merrydelle –– Downtown Jacksonville’s First Lifestyle Hotel
Gateway Jax, a leading developer in Jacksonville's urban core, today announced a signed agreement with Marriott International and The Indigo Road Hospitality Group to open Hotel Merrydelle, a Marriott Tribute Portfolio hotel. Formerly the Ambassador Hotel, the building is set to undergo a transformative renovation as part of Gateway Jax’s development of Pearl Square.
The Tribute Portfolio Hotel brand portfolio represents a collection of independent boutique hotels that showcase unique design, create spaces and experiences that connect guests to the surrounding community, and focus on unmatched, sincere service. Hotel Merrydelle is slated to be Downtown Jacksonville’s first lifestyle hotel.
The Indigo Road Hospitality Group will manage the 109-key boutique hotel and its culinary program. The renovation plans to reorient the hotel’s main entry to its original Church Street location, integrating the hotel with adjacent gathering spaces, including Porter House Lawn and Garden and Klutho’s Alley: offering guests direct access to an evolving, vibrant and walkable neighborhood within Downtown.
This new name honors Merrydelle Hoyt, and marks the next phase for the historic property located at 310 West Church Street. Hoyt was one of the four visionary founders of the Jacksonville Fine Arts Society: the group whose efforts led to what is now the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) Jacksonville. Hoyt believed in the importance of beauty to society, and that it belonged in the public square where everyone had access. The decision to celebrate her impact underscores the project's commitment to celebrating Jacksonville’s unique cultural heritage.
Originally opened in 1924 as luxury apartments, the building earned recognition on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983. Although the structure remains sound, it has been vacant for decades. Gateway Jax will blend the building's rich history with fresh, modern sophistication, preserving many of the original facade details while thoughtfully updating the remaining space with transitional design. From the inviting lobby with works by local artists on display, to a buzzing counter for coffee, fresh pastries and conversation, the hotel’s public spaces will serve as energetic places of connection for overnight guests and daytime visitors alike.
Renowned hospitality expert Steve Palmer, founder and chief vision officer of The Indigo Road Hospitality Group, will expand his acclaimed Atlanta restaurant, Colletta, to the property. Colletta, the Italian word for “collection,” will seat 120 guests in an intimate setting, and feature a seasonal menu of Italian-American favorites. Offerings will include wood-fired pizzas, house-made pasta and antipasti. A “for the table” chef-curated, family-style dining experience will also be available alongside a beverage menu of spritzes, Italian wines and seasonally-inspired cocktails.
Hotel Merrydelle will bring an elevated hospitality experience to Pearl Square, Gateway Jax’s nine-block, mixed-use neighborhood. Hotel guests will have all of the neighborhood amenities –– including shopping, dining and beautiful public spaces — at their doorstep.
Upon full buildout, Pearl Square plans to include 1,250 new residential units; approximately 200,000 square feet of retail space anchored by Publix; vibrant new public spaces, including widened and shaded sidewalks; lush public park spaces; and a signature curbless street with abundant outdoor dining opportunities.
The $50 million renovation will begin this spring. Campo Architecture & Interior Design will serve as the lead architect, bringing their expertise in historic hotel renovation to the project. Jacksonville-based Skiles Engineering and Avant Construction have also been selected for the project team. Hotel Merrydelle is anticipated to welcome guests in 2027.