CHICAGO—The Gwen, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Chicago, recently announced the start of its guestroom renovation to elicit the inspiration of the hotel’s namesake, famed Chicago sculptress Gwen Lux, and the spirit of the hotel’s guiding design principle of 1930’s era glamour. Housed in the former McGraw-Hill building, The Gwen is in the heart of downtown Chicago, overlooking Michigan Avenue on Rush Street, providing downtown views and access to the city’s top attractions just outside its doors.
The newest member of Starwood Hotels and Resorts’ group The Luxury Collection, The Gwen opened its doors in September 2015, debuting its newly remodeled lobby, rooftop terrace, lounge, and restaurant in May 2016. The Gwen is an artistic icon that exudes timeless style and experiential luxury by way of its Art Deco, 1930s-inspired aesthetic.
Guestrooms at The Gwen invoke the comfort and sophistication that one would find while shopping at an upscale boutique on Michigan Avenue with an Art Deco touch from the 1930s. With inspiration drawn from the hotel’s namesake, famed sculptress Gwen Lux, The Gwen’s new guestrooms are rooted in an approachable elegance that invites guests to enjoy an elevated experience akin to the period of glamourous travel to Chicago when the city was advertised as the Vacation City.
Conceptualized and designed by award-winning Simeone Deary Design Group, each Art Deco-inspired room offers a welcoming atmosphere with glamorous and contemporary touches that seamlessly weave together the building’s rich history and modern luxury. Introducing jewel-toned accent elements and luxurious upholstery, guestrooms are designed to reflect the retail aspects of Chicago’s iconic Magnificent Mile shopping district just below the hotel.
Chicago-born Gwen Lux designed the bas-relief sculptures depicting the zodiac that are featured on the exterior of the building, and serve as inspiration for each room’s iteration of her famous works above the bed. The femininity of Gwen Lux is echoed through the subtle touches of backlit mirrors, artistic sketching wallpaper, and peach leather pops of color, complemented by the richness of mossy green velvets, marble and brass pieces, and weathered river tones throughout each room.
