Image by AloftImage by 20080809aloft.jpg The hotel goes for style. More pictures are available on their Web site.

The anticipated (well, for a hotel anyways) hotel Aloft has opened near the Tanger Outlets. The hotel has a modern, decidedly un-historic Charleston look (which, to me, is refreshing).

Here's a bit about it from their marketing-speak press release:
Not just a pretty space, aloft is committed to the environment through its see green program, which offers such eco-friendly amenities as preferred parking for hybrid cars and a greener-saline solution in the splash indoor pool.

Guest rooms feature urban-influenced design, while the centerpiece of each aloft room is an ultra-comfortable plush platform bed. Loft-like nine-foot ceilings and oversized windows create a bright, airy environment. Large, stylish bathrooms complement the guest experience with oversized walk-in showers and amenities created by Bliss Spa. Each aloft room is also a combination high-tech office and entertainment center, featuring wireless Internet access and plug & play, a one-stop connectivity solution for multiple electronic gadgetry such as PDAs, cell phones, mp3 players and laptops - all linked to a large, flat-panel HDTV-ready television for optimal sound and viewing.

They also hav a likewise-trendy bar that they hope will get some visits from locals.

Rates will usually be about $169, but they have a grand-opening rate of $139 for an unspecified period of time.

The hotel opened August 1 (I know, we're a bit late on this one).