Along Georgia’s coast lies a string of barrier islands known as the Golden Isles. The largest of these is St. Simons Island, where throughout its history, has played a role in many a war and battle. But, it wasn’t until WWII, during which St. Simons served as a naval base and radar school, that the island became a real community. As such, it was during this time that the King and Prince hotel was built.

For three quarters of a century, the King and Prince has welcomed visitors to St. Simons, housing naval officers, local dances, weddings and family vacations. As the owners of the hotel began an interior renovation, they wanted to revamp the bar and restaurant, celebrate the hotel’s history, capitalize on its view and draw in locals and travellers alike. They turned to ai3 to turn this ambitious vision into a reality.

ai3 was challenged to design a restaurant space that would fit within the hotel’s overall renovation, but which maintained a setting intriguing enough to attract locals and distinct enough to establish itself as a destination bar and restaurant. To capitalize on the sweeping view of the coast, the team relocated the bar, opened the kitchen and improved visibility throughout the dining area.

The hotel’s rich history and naval legacy is revealed in the many design details that ai3 infused throughout the space. Finishes, such as steel and brass play a prominent role in the design. Nautical elements like i-beams, rivets, portholes, boat cleats, and the open galley kitchen are clever and stylish reminders of the King and Prince’s voyage through the years.