RUTHERFORD, N.J.—Concord Hospitality today announced the completion of a $7 million renovation of the 167-room (including five suites) Renaissance Meadowlands in Rutherford, N.J. The hotel is owned in a joint venture between Rockbridge, a private equity firm that invests in hotels, and Concord.
The five-month project involved a complete rejuvenation of all guestrooms, guest bathrooms, and public spaces. This included a rebranding of the hotel’s restaurant, Finch’s, and reconfiguration of the lounge and lobby creating more of a “great room” style space. Guestroom renovations include conversion to frameless glass showers, new case goods, soft goods, vanities, tile, and fixtures. Architectural Services were provided by Thomas Hamilton and Associates of Richmond, Va.
“We are really proud of the relationship with Concord,” noted Jim Merkel, Rockbridge president and CEO. “The team’s collaboration on this project significantly transformed the property to meet the needs of today’s traveler.”
“Today’s guests are using hotel lobbies and lounges as extended work spaces, as well as places to relax and interact with others,” said Mark Laport, president and CEO of Concord. “The renovation of Finch’s lounge to integrate with the lobby great room creates the kind of contemporary public space that invites relaxing work and social business.”
“Renaissance is known for incorporating local culture into the overall hotel concept,” said Donna Italia, general manager. “The Renaissance Meadowland’s new look was created by Dash Design and inspired by the Richard W. DeKorte Park, a local bird sanctuary. The details include bird houses, nest chairs, origami birds, ethereal feathers, and lines of branches. New Jersey is the Garden State, after all, and nature is reflected throughout.”
The rebranded Finch’s offers what Concord’s Corporate Director of Food and Beverage Dean Wendell calls “interesting food excellently prepared.” The food and beverage team, working with local farms and sources including Valley Shepard Creamery and Tierhouse Farm, is focused on fresh and inventive options for the restaurant and the hotel’s well-regarded catering services, which specializes in intimate, VIP events for groups up to 120 people.
“Because of its location near the NJ Turnpike and the Meadowlands sports and entertainment complex, the Renaissance Meadowlands draws business travelers from New York and Philadelphia, as well as the surrounding area, along with leisure guests visiting for games and concerts,” noted Italia. “We enjoy a discerning clientele that appreciates the nuances and local references that are incorporated into each Renaissance hotel. Guests are lingering in the cozy lobby seating areas, convening at the communal tables, and interacting in the open lounge areas, all of which are sure signs of their enthusiasm for the new design. Our public spaces now have an inviting, convivial vibe.”
The Renaissance Meadowlands Hotel is less than 10 miles from Manhattan and convenient to Newark, LaGuardia, and JFK airports.
