CHICAGO
The Blackstone will join the Autograph Collection Hotels following a refresh, including the hotel’s 335 guest rooms.
“The Blackstone has found its home as part of Autograph Collection Hotels given its rich history, exceptional design and iconic reputation,” said Julius Robinson, vice president and Global Brand Lead, Autograph Collection Hotels. “Our one-of-a-kind hotels are known for providing differentiated, standout guest experiences, and we are thrilled to welcome global travelers and Chicago locals alike to this latest addition to our dynamic portfolio.”
Following the hotel’s large scale architectural restoration of $139 million in 2008, this multimillion dollar renovation refreshes the original work of renowned Chicago architectural firm Marshall and Fox, highlighting the early twenty-first century grandeur and craftsmanship while incorporating state-of-the-art technology and modern amenities. A Chicago landmark on the city’s Cultural Mile along Michigan Avenue, the hotel’s refreshed interior design carries through to the hotel’s guest rooms and suites, which feature marble accents, plush bedding and dynamic textiles. Upgraded accommodations up the ante with unobstructed views of Grant Park and Lake Michigan spanning from Navy Pier to Soldier Field.
“The Blackstone has long been the cornerstone of hospitality in Chicago,” says Kim Corrigan, general manager of The Blackstone. “The opportunity to join Autograph Collection Hotels amplifies this same distinctly hospitable and cultural spirit coupled with the unique design elements of our architecturally-stunning property.”
The creative spirit of The Blackstone is brought to life through uniquely-curated art pieces by more than 1,600 local artists placed throughout the hotel, including in the Art Hall, guest rooms and public spaces as well as woven throughout various guest touchpoints including the bespoke room keys, in-room amenities, and more.
The Blackstone Hotel’s culinary programming culminates at Mercat a la Planxa, which fuses age-old flavors from Spain’s Catalan region with a signature twist, resulting in an inspired menu market-fresh seafood, and distinctive steaks along with Cava, sangria, and wine. Having recently undergone its own refreshing restoration, the sultry Mercat a la Planxa and Mercat Lower Lounge, off Michigan Avenue, is open nightly for cocktails and tapas.
Come nightfall at The Blackstone Hotel, the newly-transformed lobby becomes a social hub for hotel guests and local tastemakers alike to gather and enjoy live local music, cultural programming and drinks from Timothy’s Hutch. A new addition following the hotel’s renovation, Timothy’s Hutch features unique cocktail programming that takes guests through the past, present, and future of The Blackstone.
The property offers 12,200 square feet of meeting and event space, including nine meeting rooms and a ballroom that can accommodate nearly 400 guests.