Following a renovation, the Nationwide Hotel and Conference Center in Columbus, Ohio, is being rebranded as The Ohioan Hotel & Event Center.
The rebranding of the 20-acre hotel and event complex in Lewis Center was recently announced by Nationwide Realty Investors, the real estate development affiliate of Nationwide and owner of the hotel and event center, which is being managed by Columbus Hospitality Management.
“As is typical in the lifecycle of all great hotels and event facilities, it was time for a comprehensive renovation and rebranding,” Brian J. Ellis, president of Nationwide Realty Investors, said in a statement. “Dating back to the 1950’s, Nationwide acquired this site in what was considered a rural area. Today, there’s tremendous growth all around the hotel, including significant infrastructure improvements. The site just keeps getting better and we’re thrilled to be enhancing the property to fit the exceptional location. The extensive work that’s underway will make this one of Ohio’s premier destinations.”
The newly completed event center renovations include renovated and modernized ballrooms and expanded and refined pre-function and post-function spaces. Updates include a new private outdoor courtyard with multiple fireplaces connected to the ballroom.
A New Experience
The property has sought to preserve its "stately" appeal, while offering updated experiences with modernized facilities. The location’s sprawling layout, multiple buildings and flexible facilities—combined with its retreat-like environment and intentional landscaping for privacy—offers a distinct alternative to traditional urban conference centers, according to the company, which further noted the village-like setting is the result of nearly 80 years of development and evolution.
The property started as a radio station in the 1940s and evolved into Green Meadows Inn during the 1960s. It was later transformed into a training center for Nationwide insurance in the 1970s and ultimately expanded into a full-scale conference and hotel destination by the early part of the century. As part of the renovations, Nationwide Realty Investors commissioned three Ohio-based artists to create original artworks for display throughout the event center.
Additional renovations underway include updates to the 193 guestrooms and suites, inspired by the property’s location with interiors incorporating natural elements. The hotel will remain open throughout the phased renovations. The 2,000-square-foot pub will also be given a refresh later this fall.
“This property has always had a stellar reputation, but our guests and long-time clients have often called it Columbus’ best kept secret and that’s about to change,” said Kathyrn Burton, COO of Columbus Hospitality Management. “These renovations thoughtfully balance modern amenities with the property’s authentic and rich history, creating a perfect mix of timeless and elegant spaces, best-in-class technology and services and an estate-inspired ambiance surrounded by nature where the walls seem to dissolve.”