The Star of America Motel was recently added to the National Register of Historic Places.
The midcentury motel, located on Rivers Ave. in North Charleston, was first built in 1961. It later changed its name to the Host of American Motel.
According to the South Carolina Historic Properties Record, the Star of American Motel “was the first prefabricated motel in Charleston County to also be pre-furnished, and was possibly the first such property in the state and nation. This type of construction would ultimately be hailed as internationally innovative.”
The motel closed in 2007, as the city deemed it hazardous due to fire and building code violations.
However, the motel is now getting new life.
In an effort to restore the motel, the property is currently undergoing renovations under the supervision of property manager, Ham Morrison. The restoration will provide 51 rooms and potentially a new restaurant for guests to enjoy.
The project is expected to be completed sometime next year.