Illinois
The Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel completed its $32 million phased renovation. Phase II added a new ballroom with views of the Chicago River, an additional 4,000 square feet of meeting space and a new rooftop bar with city views. Phase I, which included upgrades to the lobby and its 560 guest rooms, was completed in April 2015. The new rooftop bar, Raised, is an indoor/outdoor venue that can seat 50 inside and accommodate 200 guests throughout, and features an additional private event space, Urban Blue. The property has over 30,500 square feet of meeting space and includes the new 3,000-square-foot Looking Glass Ballroom that can accommodate nearly 300 and overlooks the Marina Towers and the Wrigley Building in addition to the river. The Cloud Gate Ballroom was increased to 5,000 square feet and as a continuation of the art design on the first floor, the third floor breakout rooms have been renamed Adler, Lyric and Improv, paying homage to historical architectural landmarks and art in Chicago.
Minnesota
The Hilton Minneapolis/Bloomington hotel announced the completion of a renovation. The hotel, which is located near the Mall of America and managed by Marcus Hotels & Resorts, has 256 guest rooms. The remodel incorporated a sleek and contemporary design throughout and includes renovations of the lobby area and entrance, food and beverage outlets, meeting space and executive lounge. A Starbucks Grab & Go was added and Olive Bar & Lounge was made into a space for relaxing, work and socializing. The hotel’s traditional steakhouse, Bloomington ChopHouse, which was voted “Best Steakhouse” by the Bloomington Sun Current for five consecutive years, also unveiled a new look. The property features over 9,000 square feet of meeting space and includes the 5,000-square-foot American Ballroom that was completely renovated with new carpeting and decor. Its foyer space has new furniture with enhanced technology such as work desks with power and USB outlets. The ballroom can accommodate up to 500 guests.
Ohio
The 116-suite Residence Inn Avon at the Emerald Event Center opened about 20 miles from downtown Cleveland and is attached to the Emerald Event Center and adjacent to the Richard E. Jacobs Health Center. Following the brand’s design of one- and two-bedroom suites with fully equipped kitchens, the hotel is designed for longer stays. The Emerald Event Center offers over 11,000 square feet of event space with on-site catering and an outdoor courtyard that can be tented. The 6,700-square-foot Emerald Ballroom can accommodate nearly 700 attendees.
Oklahoma
NewcrestImage purchased a 60,000-square-foot site in Oklahoma City’s Bricktown historic district for development of a dual-branded hotel. Construction began in early April for a 142-room AC Hotel by Marriott and a 134-room Hyatt Place, with openings expected in 2017. The property is located adjacent to the 13,000-seat Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark and within a few blocks of Cox Convention Center. Bricktown consists of 50 square blocks downtown that have been transformed from an abandoned warehouse district to an urban neighborhood for dining, shopping and entertainment. The AC will follow the brand’s contemporary lifestyle vibe that blends high tech and comfort while the Hyatt Place will be designed with comforts for business travelers.