CHICAGO
Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel began its second phase of renovations this month. Set to be completed by March 2016, Phase II will include the addition of a brand new ballroom with breathtaking views of the Chicago River, and an additional 4,000 square feet of meeting space.
The $8 million dollar renovation will also introduce a new indoor/outdoor terrace bar with city views. Fire pits and authentic design features including glass, iron, greenery, and reclaimed wood elements will fill the space, which seats 160 guests. The terrace bar will feature 14 taps boasting local beer selections and a variety of exclusive wines, as well as a Chicago-influenced menu created by Executive Chef Daniel Perez. The bar's additional event space, Urban Blue, allows for private events.
The Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel will also introduce the 3,000 square-foot Looking Glass Ballroom in spring 2016. It will feature floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing views of Chicago's cityscape.
The hotel previously completed Phase I of renovations in April 2015, with the unveiling of a $24 million lobby and guest room transformation. The revamped lobby's high-low design approach paired luxurious high-end finishes with raw, gritty, concrete and graffiti-inspired surfaces.
Located in the middle of the lobby is the Renaissance Navigator, situated at the communal Navigator Table—a twist on the traditional concierge desk, designed as an interactive place to explore new ideas, touch and feel new technologies, or simply check out new finds that only a local would know.
Stair seating creates an ideal perspective for the hotel's signature Renaissance Events, part of the brand's long-standing multimedia entertainment program and its commitment to supporting emerging artists. Renaissance Events will include everything from live performances by local musicians, mixology demos, wine tastings, art exhibitions, book signings, and more.
The Phase I revamp also included the renovation of the hotel’s 520 guest rooms and 40 suites. Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel currently features 34,687 square feet of total event space.
