A Creative Partnership Rooted in Place: The Indigo Road Hospitality Group × David Thompson Studio

Charleston’s hospitality scene is often celebrated for its ability to feel both deeply rooted and constantly evolving. Behind many of its most compelling spaces is a powerful, often unseen force: collaboration. Few partnerships exemplify this better than the ongoing relationship between The Indigo Road Hospitality Group and David Thompson Studio.

Founded in 2009 by Steve Palmer, Indigo Road operates boutique hotels and restaurants in the Southeast and beyond, while David Thompson Studio, a prolific architecture firm established in 2010, has helped shape many of the spaces that define Charleston’s hospitality scene. Having grown alongside one another, the two have frequently collaborated on local projects, spending more than a decade shaping the city’s vibrant culinary landscape.

Designing Experience, Not Just Space

At the heart of this partnership is a shared philosophy: hospitality is about storytelling. Indigo Road has built its brand on creating restaurants and hotels that feel authentic to their surroundings. That commitment naturally extends to working with local architects and designers who understand Charleston’s character.

Steve Palmer noted, “Charleston has such a strong sense of identity, a sense of self, especially when it comes to hospitality. It only makes sense for us to work with local developers and local designers… When people come to a city with a rich history like Charleston, I think they want to see and stay and eat in places that feel of that place.”¹

Together, David Thompson Studio and Indigo Road have collaborated on a number of standout projects across the city, including Indaco, The Cedar Room, Mercantile & Mash, Shokudō, and the forthcoming Riva Mare rooftop restaurant at the Navy Yard, often partnering with other local firms, such as Lennon Construction, to help bring these projects to life.

Their deep investment in the local food and beverage community is exactly why we’re so excited to have them as presenting co-sponsors of the 18th Annual Chef’s Potluck. Both organizations have spent years championing local talent and shaping the places where our community gathers to eat, connect, and celebrate.

Shokudô Japanese Tavern, designed by David Thompson Studio for Indigo Road