Historic Dan River Mills Building Reopens as Boutique Hotel

The Laurel, a 36-room boutique hotel, opens in Danville's Schoolfield District.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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The former administrative hub of the Dan River Mills textile manufacturer in Danville, Virginia has been refurbished and reopened as a 36-room boutique hotel called The Laurel. The hotel is part of the Danville Hotel Collection and aims to preserve the building's industrial past while offering modern accommodations for visitors.

Why it matters

The reopening of this historic building as a boutique hotel represents an investment in Danville's historic neighborhoods and the ongoing revitalization of the Schoolfield Village area. It allows the city to honor its industrial heritage while attracting new visitors and economic activity.

The details

The Laurel boutique hotel officially opened on February 12, 2026 after the 1903 building that previously housed the administrative offices of the Dan River Mills textile manufacturer was refurbished. The hotel features 36 rooms and is located near Caesars Virginia, offering amenities to guests.

  • The Laurel boutique hotel officially opened on February 12, 2026.
  • The building was originally constructed in 1903 and served as the administrative hub of Dan River Mills.

The players

Danville Hotel Collection

The group that owns and operates The Laurel boutique hotel, as well as two other hotels in the Danville area.

Dan River Mills

A notable textile manufacturer in the South that previously occupied the building that now houses The Laurel boutique hotel.

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What they’re saying

“The Laurel represents a continued investment in Danville's historic neighborhoods and the ongoing revitalization of Schoolfield Village.”

— Danville Hotel Collection leadership team member (wdbj7.com)

The takeaway

The reopening of this historic building as a boutique hotel is an example of how cities can preserve their industrial heritage while also driving economic development and attracting new visitors through adaptive reuse projects.