Located in the heart of Jamaica’s capital city, The AC Hotel Kingston takes its resort-style inspiration from the surrounding Blue Mountains.
Welcome to Kingston, Jamaica—a city bursting with energy, history, and culture. Nestled in its vibrant heart is an immersive hotel experience that embodies the essence of island life, its colors, textures, rhythms, and soul evident in every aspect of the design.
The 148,000-square-foot AC Hotel Kingston takes its architectural inspiration from the surrounding Blue Mountains. The distinctive balconies protruding from the façade are reminiscent of the puffy clouds that bisect the range on sunny Jamaican afternoons. Stepping onto the property feels like a resort oasis amongst Kingston’s urban hustle-and-bustle; a purposeful tactic to create a truly immersive guest experience. The property includes a custom outdoor stage for live music and community events, along with a pool and pool deck.
Inside, the seven-story hotel includes 220 guest rooms and suites, a branded lounge, kitchen, library, ballroom and meeting space, and media salons. The layering of light wood walls, warm neutral floors, and textural stone tile imparts a tranquil atmosphere elevated by signature artwork and accessories. The gallery-inspired aesthetic was thoughtfully curated to provide guests with a deeper connection to the heart of Jamaica with a distinctive collection of Jamaican art and furnishings reflective of its people, heritage, and culture.
“Our goal was to create a building that harmonizes with the local community while immersing guests in the true spirit of the island,” says Principal, Bob Tierney, AIA. “Drawing from the textures, colors, and forms of the landscape, we crafted an environment that mirrors Jamaica’s vibrant identity and celebrates the stories that make it distinct.”
The integration of art is core to the hotel’s philosophy. As part of the design process, a local art curator was engaged to achieve a truly authentic representation of Jamaica’s people and day-to-day life. Most pieces were commissioned specifically for the hotel and the exhibit offers a representation of Jamaica’s vibrant diversity; a purposeful mixture of sculpture, mixed-media, wood carvings, oil on canvas, and more, meant to spark conversation around issues of humanity we all face.
The hotel’s stunning outdoor spaces embody the essence of sophisticated relaxation. An undercover terrace showcases a chic, modern bar adorned with sleek white details, inviting guests to sip refreshing drinks while soaking in breathtaking views. Stylish, low-slung seating, complete with plush cushions, creates a cozy ambiance that’s perfect for intimate conversations or leisurely lounging beneath the warm glow of ambient lighting. At the heart of this space lies the outdoor pool, a serene sanctuary that complements the vibrancy of the surrounding urban environment. Framed by lush landscaping, the pool area beckons guests to take a refreshing dip while enjoying stunning vistas of the city skyline and the distant Blue Mountains.
As day transitions into night, the outdoor space transforms into an oasis, making it the ideal setting for community social gatherings or unwinding solo after a busy day exploring the mountainous locale. With its blend of luxury and tranquility, the outdoor patio invites guests to escape the everyday and immerse themselves in indulgence.
The building aims to do more than just house guests; it’s dedicated to being a vital part of the community and local economy. Since opening its doors, the hotel’s public spaces have transformed into a buzzing hub for locals and visitors alike. Friendships are forged over cocktails, business deals are struck, and memories are made—all while soaking in the rich tapestry of Jamaican culture. The design weaves modern lines with familiar patterns, colors, and textures, creating an environment that feels both contemporary and deeply rooted in local tradition. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, exploring the curated art collection, or enjoying a live performance, you’ll find that every corner of this hotel has a story to tell.
Since its construction, the AC Hotel Kingston has only grown in popularity. The hotel was named the best MICE hotel in 2022 by the World MICE Awards and was also nominated for Jamica’s Leading Hotel in 2024 by the World Travel Awards.
Project: AC Hotel Kingston
Location: Kingston, Jamaica
Design Studio: Baskervill
Photo Credits: Photo Fusion Media
Website: baskervill.com
