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 multi-million dollar renovation adds a new ballroom with breathtaking views of the Chicago River, an additional 4,000 square feet of meeting space, and introduces one of Chicago’s hottest rooftop bar concepts with inspiring city views. 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 guestroom 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 vibrant 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 50 indoor, and 200 throughout the overall indoor/outdoor space. The bar’s additional event space, Urban Blue, is the perfect location for private events.
Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel’s new 3,000 square-foot Looking Glass Ballroom offers a stunning new option for weddings and 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.
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 leading hospitality developer The John Hardy Group. Phase I revamped the hotel’s lobby with a high-low design approach, pairing luxurious high-end finishes with raw, gritty, concrete and graffiti-inspired surfaces. Experiential works of art by homegrown artists are placed to intrigue; CTA bus-inspired windows from the early 1950s serve as a gateway into the chef’s display kitchen at Staytion Market and Bar; the hotel’s first floor dining concept. In addition to Staytion, the revamped lobby offers ample opportunity for Marriott Rewards Elite Members to enjoy the R-Lounge. The Artist Studio and The Library also capture the high energy, whimsical character, and ebullience of Chicago.
Merging the business of the Loop with the pleasure of State Street shopping and Chicago’s Theater District, the hotel invites discovery at every turn. Located in the middle of the lobby is the Renaissance Navigator, situated at the communal Navigator Table – a unique twist on the traditional concierge desk. The navigators bring to life the concept of “Business Unusual” and encourage our guests to explore the city that they are visiting to uncover and discover new things about the city, as well as themselves.
Stadium seating creates a perfect perspective for the hotel’s signature Celebrate the Neighborhood Events, part of the brand’s long-standing commitment of helping guests make the most of their evenings from 5pm-9pm. These events include everything from live performances by local musicians, mixology demos, wine tastings, art exhibitions, and more.
Discoverers now have the opportunity to unwind and revitalize their minds and bodies in one of the 520 renovated guestrooms and 40 suites, boasting stunning views of downtown Chicago.
