By Gene Galin
Pittsboro, NC — The recently opened Hampton Inn in Pittsboro is breaking new ground in more ways than one. While the hotel offers the typical amenities expected from the Hilton brand, it also incorporates local artistry, unique architectural features, and a strong family-oriented approach. In my discussion with them at the grand opening, Malcolm and Sally Bryant, the owners, share how their vision for this hotel aligns with their connection to the community and their commitment to making Pittsboro a welcoming place for visitors.
A Vision Rooted in Family and Community
In a town known more for its charming rural character than for its large-scale development, the opening of the Hampton Inn in Pittsboro has created a buzz. Malcolm Bryant, along with his wife Sally, has made a significant investment in the area, bringing not only a high-quality hotel to the region but also a business that emphasizes community involvement and local artistry.
“We chose Pittsboro because it felt like home. We wanted to be part of a community where we could engage with locals, not just a business venture,” said Malcolm Bryant, reflecting on the decision to invest in the town. The Bryants fell in love with the charm of Chatham County after their daughter and grandchildren settled in nearby Raleigh.
Though the family’s roots are not in the area, they found a sense of belonging here. “Pittsboro is exactly where we wanted to be,” said Bryant. “The people here were welcoming from the start. We felt like we could make a difference, and we could build something that the community would be proud of.”
Overcoming Challenges and Building a Unique Property
While the Bryants had the vision, the path to opening the hotel wasn’t without its hurdles. Construction challenges slowed the process at various stages. However, the Bryants remained committed to their plan of hiring local talent and investing in the community.
“We wanted to work with local contractors, even though they had never built a hotel before,” explained Malcolm. “It wasn’t about taking the easy route. It was about creating something unique for Pittsboro—something that would feel special and local. The building itself is an expression of the town’s spirit.”
Instead of outsourcing the design and construction to big-city firms, the Bryants prioritized local talent. Sanford Contractors led the construction, despite having no prior experience with hotel projects. Similarly, the architectural plans were entrusted to a local architect with a fresh perspective, ensuring the hotel would be anything but cookie-cutter.
“It was about creativity and community,” Bryant explained. “We wanted a hotel that was uniquely Pittsboro, not something cookie cutter that you’d find along every interstate.”
The hotel’s inauguration marks the arrival of Pittsboro’s first modern lodging establishment and positions the town as a destination of choice for travelers and locals alike.
“We envisioned this hotel as not just a building but a place that truly reflects Pittsboro’s unique culture,” said Malcolm Bryant, speaking during the grand opening ceremony. “Our goal was to create something special and enduring for this community.”
Showcasing Chatham County’s Creativity
One of the standout features of the new Hampton Inn is its commitment to showcasing local art. From pottery to oil paintings and photography, the hotel is a living gallery of Chatham County’s artistic talent. Collaborations with local schools and artists have resulted in spaces that feel both contemporary and deeply connected to the community’s heritage.
Guests entering the lobby are greeted by vibrant displays of pottery and photography, while guest rooms feature pieces by local artisans. This integration of art serves as a celebration of Pittsboro’s creative spirit and ensures visitors leave with a lasting impression of the town’s cultural richness.
A Vision Realized Amid Challenges
The path to opening the hotel was not without obstacles. Like many businesses in recent years, the Bryants faced some supply chain disruptions that threatened to delay the project. However, their focus on working with local contractors and artists helped mitigate these challenges.
“Building a hotel is never easy, but the relationships we built with local talent made all the difference,” Bryant noted. “It’s the magic of those relationships that brings this project to life.”
The result is a property that not only meets Hilton’s high standards but also stands out as a model for innovation in the hospitality industry. Hilton representatives attended the grand opening to learn from the Bryants’ approach, signaling that Pittsboro’s Hampton Inn may inspire similar projects nationwide.
The Community’s Hotel
From the outset, the Bryants made it clear that their primary goal was to serve Pittsboro and its residents. This commitment is already paying off. During the hotel’s soft opening, occupancy rates surged for Thanksgiving and Christmas, largely driven by local families hosting out-of-town guests.
“When locals choose us over their spare bedrooms, it’s the ultimate vote of confidence,” Bryant said. “It shows that they see this as their hotel.”
Beyond holiday bookings, the hotel is expected to attract business travelers, tourists exploring nearby attractions, and visitors to Pittsboro’s growing array of events and festivals.
Setting a Standard for Hospitality in Pittsboro
The opening of the Hampton Inn is more than just a milestone for the Bryants; it’s a turning point for Pittsboro. By combining modern amenities with a deep respect for local culture, the hotel sets a new standard for hospitality in the area.
As Pittsboro continues to grow, the Hampton Inn stands as a testament to what can be achieved when innovation and community come together. Whether through its art, its architecture, or its warm service, the hotel promises to be a lasting symbol of the town’s potential.
With its doors now open, the Hampton Inn hotel invites locals and visitors alike to experience the warmth and creativity that define this special corner of North Carolina.