May 23, 2016 – STAMFORD, Conn. – Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT) today announced Element Hotels, its stylish eco-incubator brand, will debut in Detroit in July of 2018, following an adaptive re-use project that will transform the historic Metropolitan Building into an upscale mixed-use development. Element Detroit at the Metropolitan Building will be owned and developed by Metropolitan Hotel Partners, LLC, a joint venture between Detroit-based Means Group and Roxbury Group, and will feature 110 light-filled rooms and an atmosphere designed to fuel a life in balance and on the move.
“We look forward to introducing Element to Detroit with this exciting adaptive re-use project that will retain the historic charm of the Metropolitan Building, while turning it into a sleek and stylish destination for travelers visiting the ‘Motor City,'” said Brian McGuinness, Senior Vice President of Specialty Select Brands for Starwood. “On track to more than double its global portfolio in the next three years, Element offers travelers bright modern design, an energizing atmosphere, and everything they need for smart, sustainable living.”
The 14-story neo-gothic Metropolitan Building was designed by the Detroit firm of Weston and Ellington and opened in 1925 as a jewelry emporium, housing diamond cutters, goldsmiths and silver workers on the upper floors and retail on the lower levels. Building on the success of the recently opened Aloft Detroit at The David Whitney, the Element adaptive re-use project will include the restoration of the hotel’s exterior and a top-to-bottom renovation of the interior, while preserving elements of the Metropolitan Building’s original ornate lobby and mezzanine. The 100,000 square-foot building will feature 2,000 square feet of state-of-the-art meeting space on the second floor mezzanine level with attractive views of the city skyline, approximately 7,000 square feet of retail on the ground floor and lower level, and an outdoor patio on the 11th floor rear rooftop.
“Element Detroit at the Metropolitan Building is a highly-anticipated addition to the brand’s rapidly growing portfolio and will present travelers with an appealing, new option for short and long stays, right in the city’s Entertainment District,” said Allison Reid, Senior Vice President of North America Development, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. “The stylish and sustainable Element brand is gaining significant momentum in markets worldwide due to the success of its distinct lifestyle positioning and popularity with global travelers”
A recognized industry leader in the eco-space, Element offers travelers a fresh interpretation of the traditional hotel experience with natural light, modern design, healthy options and eco-minded sensibilities. This reimagined extended-stay experience is perfect for the traveler who is visiting for a few days or a few weeks. Guests can fuel their day with the healthy Rise breakfast and wind down with the Relax evening wine reception – both complimentary. Spacious studios and one-bedroom suites at Element Detroit at the Metropolitan Building will offer a fluid design of modular furniture, fully equipped kitchens, the signature Heavenly® Bed and spa-inspired bathrooms. Hotel amenities will include the Restore gourmet pantry, fast and free WiFi, complimentary bikes to borrow, a state-of-the-art 24-hour fitness center and indoor swimming pool.
“The new Element will help meet demand for high-caliber extended stay lodging in downtown Detroit, as well as address the growing demand for business and leisure travel to downtown, particularly given its close proximity to the city’s top entertainment attractions,” said David Di Rita, with the Roxbury Group. “With its historic appeal, smart design and diverse offerings, Element Detroit at the Metropolitan Building will serve an important role in the growth of the city and in our ongoing drive to preserve the City’s architectural gems.”
Located near Grand Circus Park, Element Detroit at the Metropolitan Building is in the heart of the City’s Entertainment District, just three blocks from both Comerica Park and Ford Field. Nearby attractions include Greektown, the Detroit Opera House, Fox and Filmore Theatres, as well as Downtown Detroit’s growing array of popular restaurants and bars. Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) is less than half an hour away.
Element continues to grow at a phenomenal pace with hotels slated to open in numerous markets by the end of 2017, including Austin, Dallas, Midland, San Antonio, Fort Lauderdale, Gainesville, Moline, Redmond, Huntsville, Palmdale, Columbus, Calgary, Edmonton, London, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; and Hebei, China.
