In 2015, a casual lunch date in Atlanta (after meeting online) ignited the love story and entrepreneurial journey of Julian and Karie Brittano.
Known for his role in the Oprah Winfrey Network TV series Greenleaf, Julian had transitioned from nightlife hospitality to the film industry the same year he met Karie, a licensed general contractor who worked on commercial projects.
The duo brought their distinct skillsets together to establish their High Point, North Carolina-based development venture, the Brittano Group, in 2018 and its subsidiary, Rook Hotels, in 2022.
Last year, the husband-and-wife team entered into a public-private partnership with the Virginia town of South Boston to revive the former John Randolph Hotel into the 30-key Rook Hotel South Boston, set to debut in fall 2025. They also signed with Choice Hotels’ Ascend Collection, are the first brand partner of Choice’s Emerging Markets division, and are part of the company’s HERtels program, which empowers female entrepreneurs throughout their ownership journey.
Why did you form the Brittano Group?
Karie Brittano: When we first [started], we wanted to create a commercial space with lodging capabilities and specialty services for people coming into town to shoot content. [Julian is also a musician, song writer, and producer.] Our first facility was 60,000 square feet in North Carolina, and we had a lot of people stay. It was a whole ecosystem in itself. It pushed us into thinking about hotels without knowing we were thinking about hotels.
What’s your vision for Rook?
Julian Brittano: The concept comes from chess, with the rook piece being on the four corners of the [board]. Our concept is ‘We have you covered from all angles.’
What has it meant to bring Rook to South Boston?
KB: It’s been an eye-opening experience, especially being African American. That’s one reason we went with Choice. Having that educational piece for us was huge. We wanted to learn the process and bring in more partners so we can build generational wealth. The town has been very amenable and cooperative with our vision. It’s been a team effort.
What can you tell us about the design of the property, spearheaded by NewGround?
KB: It’s one of the main buildings in the downtown area. We wanted to stay true to the original presence of the hotel. We found old wallpaper, which influenced [the color palette]. We’re being historic while bringing in modern features with technology [and furnishings].
What’s the future look like for Rook?
JB: We want to create more than just rooms. We want to bring visitors to the areas [we go in]. We’re focused on tourism, events, and engagement and feel we have a strong model that we can move forward with and scale.
Hear more from the Brittanos at HD Expo + Conference:
The New New: Hoteliers Making Their Mark
Tuesday, April 30th, 2:30–3:15pm
Location: Social Hub
This article originally appeared in HD’s April 2024 issue.
