CHICAGO—Set against the 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 renovation adds a new ballroom with 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 history that is Chicago, Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel completed Phase I in April 2015, with the unveiling of the lobby and guestroom transformation.
Debuting in time for the warm weather, the new rooftop bar Raised puts a spin on the city’s rooftop bar scene. Located on the 3rd floor of the hotel, the indoor/outdoor destination invites the 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, works 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 State Street shopping and Chicago’s Theater District, the hotel invites discovery. 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.
Stadium seating is available at 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. 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.
