CAMDEN — Work is underway on renovations to the former Paul Gibbons law offices on Washington Street.
Ellsworth developer Jonathan Bates said he plans to turn the building across the street from the town office into a boutique hotel with about five luxury rooms. The downstairs is already set up as a two-bedroom apartment, he said, and the plan is to have that serve as a two-bed, two-bath space that could be rented through the off-season. The upstairs would have hotel rooms. Bates said people visiting Maine like the timber-frame style, so he said the look will be like a modern farmhouse with large beams and king-size beds and fireplaces. Some will have granite bars. In addition, he said he plans to have some rooms available with vacationing families in mind. There will be bunks for the kids with their own TVs in an area that can be separated by a divider from the parents’ quarters. He has plans for other properties in Camden as well, including an “Airbnb” space he is developing on Rawson Ave.
Bates is in the process of planning 136 units for another project in Ellsworth and he has experience in luxury apartments. He also plans a project in Freeport. He praised the Camden Planning Office staff for their help in bringing the project to town. He also said he has gotten to know neighbors in the community that he feels have all been helpful and supportive. Bates said it is his goal to offer menus and brochures in the lobby for downtown businesses. He looks forward to making connections and working with the Camden business community, he said.