National Development to Build AC Hotel by Marriott in South Boston

BOSTON—National Development reports it plans to build a 200-room AC Hotel by Marriott hotel in South Boston near its Ink Block project.

The Newton Lower Falls, MA firm will build the new hotel at the former sites of FW Webb and Independent Taxi. National Development previously acquired both sites and anticipates the construction on the hotel will begin later this year with an opening slated for early 2017.

The Ink Block contains three apartment buildings, totaling 315 units, and a fourth residential building with condominiums. In addition, a 50,000-square-foot Whole Foods store opened at the site on Jan. 9, according to the Boston Business Journal.

The project architect for the hotel is Elkus Manfredi Architects. Cranshaw Construction is the general contractor. The management firm for the hotel has not been determined, the company says.

Ted Tye, National Development's managing partner, states that the vision for the six-acre Ink Block is becoming a reality. “The character of the neighborhood and its surroundings are quickly evolving. A new community is emerging that not only reflects the vibe, context and culture of the South End, but is representative of where Boston is going.”

He adds, “The response to the recent opening of Whole Foods at Ink Block has been off the charts. With the success of Ink Block and other new development, it is becoming increasingly apparent that the market is demanding these types of dynamic mixed-use projects.”

Both the scale and exterior design of the hotel will create what National Development says will be a contemporary feel that works well with National's four adjacent buildings. Residents have begun to move into two of the buildings and a third is scheduled to open in March. Sepia, the condominiums at Ink Block, will open in September.