The Hotel Carmichael opened in Carmel in 2020 and was much more than a hotel. Rising in the heart of Carmel City Center, steps from the Palladium and framed by the city’s walkable streets and cultural landmarks, the boutique property embodied a vision set years earlier—to create a “destination within a destination.”
Five years on, the vision has grown beyond expectations. The 122-room hotel has been recognized as the 2025 Best Luxury Boutique Hotel in Indiana by Luxury Travel Magazine, consistently posting occupancy rates in the mid-80% range—well above the 77% originally projected. The hotel’s demand has grown rapidly, and according to Jamie Hopwood the GM, it is now forced to turn away corporate meetings and weddings because of lack of space.
He stated that “from day one we have exceeded projections.” “The demand for weddings as well as corporate meetings and leisure travel have exceeded our capacity.” This performance was so strong and the community enthusiasm so high that it made it clear now is the best time to expand.
The expansion is more than a response to market demand—it’s also closely aligned with Carmel’s broader tourism and economic strategy. Former Mayor Jim Brainard saw the city as an arts and dining hub, with a boutique-style hotel at its center, that would attract tourists from far and wide.
Hopwood stated that by adding more rooms, meeting and event spaces, and luxury suites to the hotel, Carmel will not only be able to welcome more guests, but it will also improve its ability as a host city for conventions and other group events.
The current mayor, Sue Finkam, agrees that the project will enhance Carmel’s image as a tourist destination. The Hotel Carmichael, one of the most prestigious hotel properties in our state, will increase Carmel’s appeal to both business and leisure travelers as a result of this exciting new project.
The expansion is scheduled to be completed in 2026. It will be located in the north end, which is directly connected to the hotel, in the Wren building. It will add 60 guestrooms—nine double queens, 30 kings and 21 suites, including three presidential suites designed for luxury travelers, bridal parties and VIP guests.
The new ballroom, measuring 2,052 square feet, will be able to accommodate banquets of up to 120 people or receptions up to 160. It is designed to mirror the elegance and style of the Cole Porter Ballroom. Corporate groups will be served by a 913-sq.ft. executive meeting room with 18 seats and a prefunction area.
“These additions mean we can host larger corporate events and even two weddings at the same time—something we haven’t been able to do before,” Hopwood said.
Adagio Lounge is undergoing a major transformation. The bar will be expanded and the existing boardroom converted into additional seating. Hopwood referred to the lounge’s reimagined design as “a unique, speakeasy-like area,” which would maintain the sophisticated nature of the hotel and increase its capacity for serving guests.
Design consistency will be crucial. The expansion will carry forward the hotel’s blend of architectural inspiration from Robert Adam and décor that celebrates the Great American Songbook.
The following are some of the ways to improve your own ability to learn. Pedcor CompaniesThe expansion is a testament to a public-private partnership that benefits both parties. Carmel will share in the cash flow of the hotel, which will help accelerate repayments for previous city investments.
Pedcor’s President/CEO Bruce Cordingley said the expansion was “a reflection on the high demand we have seen since our opening and the growth of Carmel, as a tourist destination.”
Hopwood believes that the benefits of its hotel will be felt far beyond its walls. “Every guest we bring in contributes to the local economy—whether they’re shopping in the Arts & Design District, dining in Midtown or enjoying cultural experiences in City Center,” he said. This expansion will magnify the economic ripple effects citywide.
Willis Cheng VP, North America, full service development, western Region Marriott International, praised the project as “a standout example of the excellence of the Autograph Collection,” adding, “We’re deeply grateful to the City of Carmel and Pedcor for their continued collaboration in shaping such a remarkable and prominent landmark along the Monon Greenway.”
For Hopwood and his team, the expansion is about more than square footage—it’s about deepening the hotel’s role as a cultural and community touchstone. He said that the Hotel Carmichael has always been more than just a hotel. “It is a place of gathering, a cultural icon, and an expression Carmel’s personality.” This new chapter will only strengthen that presence.”
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