Square Roots Collective is redeveloping an 18th-century building in Kennett Square into an eight-room boutique hotel, Francis Hotel & Suites, that is expected to open in early 2026, writes Emma Dooling for the Philadelphia Business Journal.
Square Roots Collective is a nonprofit focused on advancing the Kennett Square community. Stephanie Almanza, the organization’s President and Real Estate Lead, said the adaptive reuse of the former 1779 home will serve as another economic generator for the town.
The opening of the hotel will line up with a projected tourism boom next year, fueled by major events in Greater Philadelphia such as FIFA World Cup games, the PGA Championship, and the MLB All-Star Game.
The nonprofit acquired the property for $545,000 in 2008, and it has remained vacant since. The building spans 5,748 square feet over three stories and retains its original facade, along with two floors in an attached structure.
The new hotel will offer rooms ranging from singles to suites with kitchenettes, each with a balcony or courtyard access.
These will be named after important moments or people in Kennett history, including The Watchmaker, honoring clockmaker Thomas Milhous, who once lived on the property.
Read more about Francis Hotel & Suites opening next year in Kennett Square in the Philadelphia Business Journal.
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