The Kansas City Marriott Downtown announced the completion of an eight-year, $65 million renovation. This major investment includes a $44 million transformation of its 970 guest rooms into luxurious, technology-forward spaces designed for the modern traveler. Lifestyle, balance, technology and green initiatives are significant areas of focus for the full remodel of the hotel’s guest rooms, gathering spaces, event venues and fitness center.
The Raphael Hotel Group, led by the Pistilli family, made the investment in the flagship property, located in the heart of downtown Kansas City, steps from the streetcar, entertainment and attractions.
The locally owned hotel is the largest hotel in the region, attracting more than 323,000 guests annually and hosting more than 900 meetings and events a year ranging from 10 to 2,000 guests.
“The $65 million invested back into the Kansas City Marriott Downtown is a commitment to continue providing the highest-level experience for visitors and locals alike,” said Cynthia Savage, vice president, Raphael Hotel Group. “Our leadership team of 14 people has a combined 409 years of experience of providing exceptional service. The guest experience influenced every decision throughout the renovation.”
Modern, Connected Guest Rooms with Spa-Like Features
Kansas City Marriott Downtown is making travel more comfortable, starting with replacing all beds with the signature Marriott Bed and Bedding, in the newly renovated rooms, including 430 king rooms, 501 queen-queen rooms and 39 suites.
Each room features the extravagant Marriott Bedding that is curated to give each guest a luxurious sleep experience. Each bed is outfitted with high count linen, soft, allergen-free down blankets and comforters and feather or down alternative pillows. The Marriott bed distributes body weight evenly and reduces pressure points for a serene sleep experience.
The new rooms are modern, sleek and spacious with modular furniture. Connectivity options are built in throughout every room. Each room is technology-focused with an average of 6 USB Ports, all within arm’s reach for easy guest access. Fast Wi-Fi and a streaming optimized 65-inch television add to the modern technology capabilities.
Additionally, the new bathrooms feature walk-in showers and are outfitted with spa-quality features, back lit mirrors and fluffy bath towels.
Artist Anthony Benton Gude, grandson of famous Missouri-born muralist Thomas Hart Benton, created an abstract interpretation of a jazz sound wave for the accent wall of every room, in honor of Kansas City’s jazz culture.
Green Initiatives
The Kansas City Marriott Downtown took extra steps to include green initiatives in the renovation plan. Smart Guest, the new in-room energy system, automatically resets when guests enter or leave a room.
These new features add to the Kansas City Marriott Downtown’s green efforts including an extensive recycling program, composting, pens and note pads made from recycled material and paperless billing.
Gathering Spaces for Locals and Travelers
The lobby provides locals and visitors a perfect work life balance. During the day, the adaptive, technology friendly area serves as a space to recharge or use as a remote workspace.
This area features quick service coffee and a breakfast bar, Coffee Central and a large two-story waterfall for a calming ambiance. In the evening, the lobby bar, Bar Central, becomes a place for locals and travelers to mix and unwind at communal tables with local beer, wine, and spirits.
Elevated Dining and Event Experiences
With a team of more than 70 experienced event and banquet managers, the Kansas City Marriott Downtown creates memorable experiences in its 35 customizable event spaces ranging from a few hundred square feet to 17,000 square feet of event space. The hotel hosts events of all sizes, styles and themes.
For locals, the Kansas City Marriott Downtown holds on average more than 300 local social events a year and provides high-quality dining experiences at Bar Central and its restaurant, MetropolitanKC.
Fitness
The fitness center, on the 22nd floor with expansive views, is the tallest in Kansas City, offering 22,000 square feet of state-of-the-art fitness equipment, on-demand classes through Wellbeats and an indoor pool open 365 days a year. Hotel guests never have to miss a workout, and locals can work out on top with a no contract membership for only $45 a month.
