Charleston's Ryder Hotel Brings Vintage Surfer Vibe

The boutique hotel's breezy design celebrates America's 250th anniversary with a summer-long celebration.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 2:15pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Ryder, a boutique hotel in Charleston, South Carolina, has undergone a $48 million renovation and rebrand under the management of Makeready, a Dallas-based hospitality firm. Helmed by Cortney Bishop Design, the hotel's design blends Mid-Century Modern elements with a relaxed, Boho-Chic aesthetic inspired by vintage surf culture and 1960s motels. The Ryder is offering a special "A Summer of Time: Toasting 250 Years of American History" package from May to July 2026 to celebrate the country's 250th anniversary.

Why it matters

The Ryder's design represents a fresh, playful take on Charleston's typically historic charm, offering a sun-soaked, coastal-inspired escape in the heart of the city. As one of only four destinations nationwide being spotlighted for America's 250th birthday, the hotel's special anniversary package highlights Charleston's role in the country's history and culture.

The details

The Ryder's 91 guest rooms feature a relaxed, bohemian style with natural materials, layered textures, and sun-washed tones. The hotel's communal spaces, including the Little Palm Bar and pool deck, embody a free-spirited, vintage surfer vibe. Art plays an important role, with many pieces sourced or commissioned to feel personal and homey. The hotel's color palette was inspired by the Lowcountry's natural surroundings, blending mossy greens, ocean blues, terracotta, and coral.

  • The Ryder underwent a $48 million renovation and rebrand in 2021.
  • The hotel is offering a special "A Summer of Time: Toasting 250 Years of American History" package from May to July 2026.

The players

Cortney Bishop Design

The design firm that helmed the renovation and rebranding of The Ryder, blending Mid-Century Modern elements with a relaxed, Boho-Chic aesthetic.

Makeready

A Dallas-based hospitality firm that took over management of The Ryder following the $48 million sale and rebrand of the former Best Western King Charles Inn.

Riley Nail

The Head of Brand at Makeready, who oversaw the hotel's design and rebranding to create a welcoming, fun, and personality-filled property.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“When Makeready took over, we leaned into that idea of an 'antidote to the ordinary.' We weren't interested in luxury that feels exclusive. We wanted to keep that true welcoming, fun, and full of personality vibe that had been created.”

— Riley Nail, Head of Brand, Makeready

“From the start, our collaboration with her felt easy and organic — a true creative partnership. She has an innate understanding of the South that doesn't rely on clichés, and her ability to blend instinct with intention is part of what makes The Ryder feel so cohesive.”

— Riley Nail, Head of Brand, Makeready

What’s next

The Ryder is offering a special "A Summer of Time: Toasting 250 Years of American History" package from May to July 2026 to celebrate America's 250th anniversary.

The takeaway

The Ryder's design represents a fresh, playful take on Charleston's historic charm, blending Mid-Century Modern elements with a relaxed, Boho-Chic aesthetic inspired by vintage surf culture. As one of the few destinations nationwide spotlighted for America's 250th birthday, the hotel's special anniversary package highlights Charleston's role in the country's history and culture.