CHICAGO
Set against the dramatic skyline on the banks of the Chicago River, Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel, 1 West Wacker Drive, has officially completed its $32 million total renovation.
Phase II of the multimillion-dollar renovation adds a new ballroom with views of the Chicago River, an additional 4,000 square feet of meeting space, and introduces a new rooftop bar concept. Reflecting the urban energy and captivating history that is Chicago, Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel completed Phase I in April 2015, with the unveiling of the lobby and guest room transformation.
Debuting just in time for the warm weather, the chic new rooftop bar, Raised, puts a spin on the city’s booming rooftop bar scene. Located on the 3rd floor of the hotel, the indoor/outdoor destination invites the energy from the city streets below. Raised’s unique design features elements of glass, iron, greenery, fire pits, and reclaimed wood to fill the space, which comfortably seats 160. The bar’s additional event space, Urban Blue, can be reserved for private events.
The Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel’s new 3,000 square-foot Looking Glass Ballroom offers yet another new option for special events, overlooking the Chicago River and some of Chicago’s most iconic architecture including Marina Towers, and the Wrigley Building. Also refreshed is the junior ballroom space, Cloud Gate Ballroom, increasing the space from 4,000 to 5,000-square-feet. As a continuation of the art design on the first floor, the third floor breakout rooms have been renamed Adler, Lyric, and Improv—all paying homage to historical architectural landmarks and art in Chicago.
In total, the Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel offers nearly 40,000 square feet of space.
The transformation of this iconic property was completed by The Gettys Group's Interior Design and Branding teams in conjunction with the Renaissance Hotels Brand Team and Carey Watermark. Both renovation phases were managed by The John Hardy Group.
In addition to the meeting space updates, business travelers and guests now have the opportunity to unwind in one of the 520 renovated guest rooms and 40 suites, boasting views of downtown Chicago.
