Word on the street: Biltmore Estate moving ahead with new hotel construction

Word on the street is that the Biltmore Estate is moving ahead with the construction of a second hotel on estate grounds. Back in June, an estate spokeswoman said the company was analyzing data and accepting construction bids. She said a final decision could be made in August, with construction beginning in August. More:

Current designs are for a 145,000 square-foot, four-story structure situated in Antler Hill Village near the Winery. Designs call for 190 guest rooms. A rendering is attached, and was part of this morning’s zoning application.

We have consulted with PGAV Destination Consulting, the designers of the estate’s Antler Hill Village.

I haven’t heard any formal announcement, but sources tell me Biltmore Estate will break ground on its new hotel this coming week. Here’s more about what the new hotel could look like, from a survey it sent to its customers:

Possible New Biltmore Hotel Description
Located in the lively Antler Hill Village area, the property offers a unique approach to Biltmore’s signature hospitality in a comfortable setting near the scenic French Broad River and convenient to the Winery, shopping and dining, outdoor activities, and evening entertainment.

The property incorporates familiar estate architectural elements including pebbledash, stucco, slate tile roof, dormers, wood, and stone. Native landscaping naturally blends the hotel into its pastoral setting. Inside, the décor reflects Biltmore’s natural beauty. The use of wood, native stone, tile, and natural textiles will complement the neutral color palette. The lobby will feature a large fireplace and comfortable furnishings for guests to casually gather and relax. Approximately 190 guestrooms offer one king or two double beds with custom bedding, writing desk and chair, upholstered window seat and ottoman, HDTV, and small refrigerator. The well-appointed bathroom features a natural slate tile shower, spacious sink, and vanity.

The property features dining options, including an open “kitchen” concept offering guests a wide variety of on-the-go food and drink options including, fresh fruit, pastries, yogurts, sandwiches, snacks, and signature coffees. The property also features a casual restaurant and bar offering a tasting menu of small plate offerings, as well as Biltmore wines, craft beers, and signature cocktails. In addition, guests may enjoy the convenience of other dining options in the village – Bistro, Cedric’s Tavern, and the Creamery.

Asheville is experiencing a hotel building boom, with one new hotel under construction right now in downtown and several more on the boards. The last major development at Biltmore was completed in 2010, when the estate opened Antler Village and remodeled its winery. The Inn on Biltmore is the estate’s upscale, four-diamond hotel on its property. It opened in 2001.