Construction is now underway on a new hotel that promises to enhance the connection between downtown Knoxville and the Fort Sanders neighborhood, popular among University of Tennessee students. The project, located at the intersection of Clinch Avenue and World’s Fair Park, marks a significant development for the area. This eight-story Home 2 Suites by Hilton will feature 130 rooms and include amenities such as an outdoor patio and rooftop lounge. The site was acquired in 2021 by Sachchidanand Hotel LLC, part of a group with several other hospitality properties across the city.

The hotel's design, crafted by Atlanta-based ELEVATE Architecture Studio, reflects modern aesthetics while integrating seamlessly with the surrounding urban landscape. Construction is being handled by McMurry Construction from Memphis. Interestingly, earlier plans from 2020 had proposed a slightly different concept for the same location, envisioning a smaller upscale hotel with fewer rooms. Despite these changes, the current project maintains its focus on creating a vibrant space that complements the bustling downtown environment.

This new addition to Knoxville’s hospitality sector not only diversifies the accommodation options but also fosters greater connectivity between the university and downtown areas. With multiple hotel projects currently in development, including Moxy by Marriott and SpringHill Suites by Marriott, the city is poised to welcome more visitors and strengthen its appeal as a dynamic destination. Such developments highlight the growing synergy between the academic community and the broader urban fabric, promoting a richer, more integrated experience for residents and visitors alike.