“We are hoping for the third quarter of 2025,” said Ed Walker, who plans to open The Laurel at 1076 W. Main St. in Schoolfield.
The developer of an upcoming boutique hotel next to the Caesars Virginia casino resort hopes the project will be complete later this year.
The name of the establishment is a nod to the history of Dan River Inc., the textile mill which operated in Danville from 1882 to 2006.
“The name comes from use of laurels in the historic Dan River trademarks and logos,” Walker said.
Laurels were worn by Roman emperors, or caesars, to symbolize their power, status and military victories. Caesars Virginia’s lobby includes a statue of Augustus Caesar, the first emperor of ancient Rome.
“It was a neat coincidence with Caesars,” Walker said of his upcoming hotel’s name.
The structure that will house the hotel was an executive office building for Dan River Inc. before the office moved to what is now the Danville Police Department headquarters at 1 Community Way off Memorial Drive. It was built in 1903.
The Laurel will include “classic, traditional, luxury interior design that uses Schoolfield photographs and objects into the decor,” Walker said when asked what the hotel’s design and themes will include. The building will include a terra cotta roof, just like the original, he said.
Rates for the rooms will vary, Walker said, estimating that they will be around $195 per night.
“The rooms will have luxury finishes, bathrooms, Virginia-made upholstered furniture, luxe items, refrigerators, etc.,” he said.
Walker also has plans for a restaurant at 916 W. Main St. in Schoolfield, but it will not open this year, he said.
“We have had to focus our attention on 1076, so it will be later in line,” Walker said.
The parcel at 916 W. Main St. includes 2.8 acres and an old brick warehouse once used by Dan River.
He is planning those projects as part of his vision to improve Schoolfield and revitalize the area.