Checking in at The Lantern Columbia. Thirty percent of hotel staff have an intellectual or developmental disability.
worked with the ClemsonLIFE program to create an innovative employment model in which just about 30 % of the staff were comprised of individuals with disabilities.
The Lantern brand is still in its infancy and remains a work in progress. Both the Columbia hotel and the Rock Hill project are heavily food-and-beverage
A double queen room features Boll and Branch linens. driven with programming that encourages the local community to engage with the hotel. At the heart of The Lantern Columbia is Ladder 13, located in the historic fire station’ s original engine bay. The signature restaurant combines Mediterranean-inspired fare with Lowcountry spirit and occupies most of the groundfloor lobby. The F & B program is helmed by Kevin Johnson, a
Rick Hayduk, general manager, The Lantern Columbia
James Beard Award nominee, who has strong ties to the University of South Carolina.“ It’ s a big part of The Lantern’ s ambition to engage with the community,” said Hayduk. The hotel does this through its culinary and beverage pursuits.“ When the firehouse bay doors are up and the fire pits on the outdoor terrace are lit; the vibe is electric,” he said.
Ultimately, the opening of The Lantern is a milestone that goes far beyond adding just another property to the Raines portfolio.“ This project is personal proof that high-end hospitality and meaningful community impact are not mutually exclusive,” said Raines.“ Seeing the historic Central Fire Station revitalized is incredible, but seeing our team, working side-by-side, is the true achievement.”
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