Final Design Review for Pensacola's Rock-Themed Hard Rock Hotel Set!

Pensacola, Florida, USA - Pensacola is gearing up for an exciting addition to its skyline with the upcoming Reverb by Hard Rock Hotel and apartment development set within the beautiful Community Maritime Park. As the city prepares for a crucial design review on June 10, the buzz surrounding this project is palpable.

According to PNJ, the final aesthetic design concepts for this innovative project will be evaluated by the Pensacola Planning Board. Inspired Communities of Florida, widely known as The Dawson Company, is leading the charge, seeking final approval for a striking 15-story apartment building alongside a 10-story hotel that promises to be a highlight in the area.

What’s in Store?

This significant endeavor, made possible through a partnership with EJ Smith Enterprises, owned by NFL Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith, will take shape on Maritime Park Lot No. 5. The city has also granted a lease option for Lot No. 4, which is currently a parking lot, allowing for an expansion of this vibrant development.

The Reverb hotel’s design is sure to capture the spirit of rock and roll, featuring engaging art inspired by the music culture. The development is aligned with the Florida Live Local Act, which allows for exemptions from local zoning regulations if 40% of the residential units are designated as workforce housing—offering affordable options for individuals earning between 80% and 120% of the area median income.

A Look Ahead

The project is set to break ground in 2026 and is scheduled to open its doors in 2029, as announced by Hard Rock International. This will mark the sixth REVERB property, joining other locations in cities like Atlanta and Hamburg. The hotel will showcase over 125 tech-savvy rooms, alongside amenities such as a full-service restaurant, a rooftop bar, a lobby lounge, and even a podcast recording studio.

Not only is this development a visual boost for the downtown area, providing stunning views of Pensacola Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, but it’s also expected to create over 500 construction jobs and more than 75 permanent positions in the hospitality sector. This initiative reflects a common sentiment in our community: local projects mean local growth.

With a strong design team that includes Gensler, Kravitz Design, and Thornton Tomasetti focusing on mass timber construction, the Reverb hotel represents a blend of innovation and sustainability that will help define Pensacola’s future.

The groundwork is being laid, quite literally, for a new chapter in Pensacola’s history with the Reverb by Hard Rock Hotel. As we approach the design review, the community stands ready to embrace what is sure to be a hallmark of culture and activity in the years to come. So, let’s keep our eyes on June 10—a day that promises to bring us closer to an exciting new venture!