TSMC, the world’s leading microchip manufacturer, is building major fabrication plants in north Phoenix.
Dignitaries recently gathered for the gala opening of the dual-branded AC Hotel by Marriott and Element by Westin in Norterra, just off Interstate 17 and Happy Valley.
While this project sits in North Phoenix, it has a direct economic impact on Northern Arizona businesses and travelers – especially as Flagstaff companies increasingly engage with the expanding TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company) semiconductor campus. For local manufacturers, engineers, consultants and supply-chain partners driving down from the high country for meetings, this new hotel is now the closest full-service lodging option to TSMC, designed to support both short stays and extended assignments.
It also serves as a safe stopover for Northern Arizona travelers when interstate closures occur because of inclement weather or traffic. The property, developed in partnership by Jackson-Shaw and Tucson-based Holualoa Companies, brings Arizona-rooted investment to one of the region’s fastest-growing business corridors.
TSMC, the world’s leading microchip manufacturer, is building major fabrication plants in north Phoenix. Its multibillion-dollar investment has ignited rapid growth along the I-17 corridor, turning it into one of Arizona’s fastest-expanding business hubs.
The grand opening, attended by Flagstaff Business News, helped introduce the new property to the businesses attracted to TSMC, which produces chips of the future.
Jackson-Shaw President and Chief Operating Officer Michele Wheeler welcomed attendees and Holualoa Companies Chief Executive Officer Richard B. Kauffman presented a check to St. Vincent de Paul Phoenix, demonstrating community support.
Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego spoke, calling TSMC development “the largest foreign investment in U.S. history.” She also announced that direct flights to Asia, driven by TMSC, will be available from Phoenix Sky Harbor for the first time.
“We are a pickleball city, so congrats to the development team for putting in a pickleball court here,” she added.
Other project partners, including Cooper Carry architects, also attended the opening. Architect Gautam Thakkar explained that the indoor palazzo-style entry space steps up to the ballroom, while the eye is drawn down toward the outdoor courtyard and pool. “The porousness of the blocks breaks down the massive walls, letting breezes and light come through to the space, bringing the outdoors in,” he said about the use of the unfinished, locally-made block, a standout feature of the new property.
Dual-Branded Property Offers Efficiency and Guest Choices
The dual-branded property delivers efficiencies because one front desk team, one facilities management team and other divisions can manage two properties simultaneously, according to Jackson-Shaw Senior Vice President of Hotel Development Joe Blewitt in an exclusive Flagstaff Business News interview.
Guests looking for amenities for longer stays, such as fully-equipped kitchens, can choose the Element side, whereas guests who desire a traditional hotel experience can opt for the AC Marriott side. Designed under one roof, the dual-branded hotel features 277 thoughtfully appointed guest rooms – 182 within the AC Hotel by Marriott and 95 in the Element by Westin.
AC Hotels
AC Hotels by Marriott (often just “AC Hotels”) is different from other Marriott International brands, emphasizing elegant, minimalist and modern European-inspired design. The brand identity leans on subtlety and sophistication: Public spaces, guest rooms and even décor are purposefully designed to maximize comfort and function without unnecessary excess.
Common social spaces – like a bar/lounge and flexible meeting or “salon” spaces – support a casual, social and multifunctional vibe (work during the day, socializing in the evening).
Element by Westin
The Element by Westin brand is crafted to support longer stays with spacious rooms and contemporary comforts. The Nordic design at Element North Phoenix is modern, open and inspired by natural elements – a more residential or apartment-style feel rather than typical hotel décor.
Element emphasizes waellness and sustainability with fitness facilities and a “bike-borrow” program, healthy breakfasts, eco-friendly materials (energy/water efficiency, recycled materials) and other features aligned with “balanced travel.”
The event gave attendees a chance to meet Executive Chef Matthew O’Harris, who oversees the properties’ four restaurants. “Matthew brings an outstanding culinary pedigree and creative vision that will set the tone for our food and beverage experience,” said General Manager Mark Hayes in a media release. “He’s a tremendous addition to the team as we build a hospitality experience that’s as inviting as it is unforgettable.”
The food at the opening gala featured Spanish specialties, including jamón sliced from the leg, pulpo (octopus) and paella, reflecting the Spanish origins of the AC Hotel brand.
O’Harris is a seasoned culinary leader with more than 20 years of experience in high-end hotel kitchens and restaurant openings. He has twice taken top honors at Arizona’s Devour Culinary Classic and was recognized as Manager of the Year at JW Marriott Camelback Inn.
The Norterra hotel complex offers 8,000 square feet of adaptable meeting space. Amenities include a modern fitness center, a landscaped outdoor courtyard with a heated saltwater pool and spa, an outdoor covered pickleball court and Topgolf Swing Suites for interactive entertainment. The 160,133-square-foot project spans three acres and has created approximately 80 new jobs in the area, including 60 full-time and 20 part-time positions.
The hotel was developed in partnership with Jackson-Shaw and Holualoa Companies. Layton Construction, headquartered in Sandy, Utah, with an office in Phoenix, was the general contractor for the project. Cooper Carry, ranked among the top architecture firms in the country, served as the architect, while DiLeonardo served as the interior designer. Crescent Hotels & Resorts, which manages four other properties in Arizona, manages the hotel. FBN
By Stacey Wittig, FBN
Photo by Stacey Wittig: This palm-lined oasis is available to all guests at AC Hotel.
