Renaissance Chicago Downtown Unveils Renovation

Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel, situated on the banks of the Chicago River, completed its $32 million total renovation. Phase two of the multimillion-dollar renovation adds a new ballroom with views of the Chicago River, an additional 4,000 sf 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 one in April 2015, with the unveiling of the lobby and guest room transformation.

Located on the third floor of the hotel,  the new indoor/outdoor rooftop bar, Raised, features design 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 has additional event space, Urban Blue, for private events.

Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel’s new 3,000-sf Looking Glass Ballroom offers a new option for special events. Also refreshed is the junior ballroom space, Cloud Gate Ballroom, increasing the space from 4,000 to 5,000-sf. 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.

Phase one 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.

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 guests to explore the city that they are visiting.

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 5 p.m.–9 p.m. These events include everything from live performances by local musicians, mixology demos, wine tastings, art exhibitions and more.

The Renaissance Chicago Downtown has 520 renovated guest rooms and 40 suites, boasting views of downtown Chicago.

www.renaissancechicagodowntown.com