CALGARY
The Calgary Marriott Downtown Hotel has unveiled plans for a bold transformation set to begin in October 2014; the changes will affect nearly every corner of the hotel, from its 384 guest rooms to its meeting space.
Scheduled for completion in Spring 2015, the upcoming makeover will encompass innovative enhancements to the guest rooms, meeting space, lobby, restaurant/bar and concierge lounge. The renovation will dovetail with the property's 40th anniversary and aims to solidify its place as a leader among upscale hotels in Calgary.
The major transformation includes expanded floor space, a reconfigured guest-services area, contemporary decor and new social seating areas, which reflect Marriott's signature GreatRoom concept. A new Starbucks location in the lobby will also include dedicated seating. And the 7,075 square feet of existing meeting space will grow by another 4,000 square feet to befit this property's location near the Calgary TELUS Convention Centre.
The guest rooms, which are already the largest among downtown Calgary hotels, will receive enhancements such as upgraded bathrooms (many of which will be converted to shower-only spaces) that incorporate sliding barn doors for better utilization of space.
One of the biggest upgrades will be the arrival of Canada's first M Club Lounge, a concierge lounge that will serve as an inspiring place for guests to work and recharge with business services, flexible seating options and food & beverage offerings.
The hotel will also update all of its dining options to improve interiors and expand seating. Additionally, a brand-new restaurant and whiskey bar that honors the hotel's Canadian roots in epicurean ways, is said to be in the works, with final details coming soon.
All current carpet will be recycled and therefore have less of an impact on the landfills. Water-saving toilets, smart thermostats with energy-efficient heating/cooling systems and card-reader technology are all part of the package, too.
Beyond the physical changes, digital innovations such as mobile check-in and concierge services along with collaborative work and meeting tools will also transform the guest experience.
