The first phase of a $27 million restoration is now complete at the Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel Chicago as 306 completely transformed guest rooms, including one-bedroom suites and guest corridors make their debut. The dramatic changes combine up-to-the-minute amenities both business and leisure travelers will welcome, plus contemporary style that highlights rich details hearkening back to the hotel's 1920s origination.
"The incredible redesign of our guest accommodations brings our hotel to a level of luxury befitting its grand beginnings and Magnificent Mile location," said Anthony Kinnear, general
manager and regional vice president. "When the entire revitalization is complete in early 2009, we will offer one of the premiere hotel destinations in Chicago," he added.
The hotel's prestigious membership in the Historic Hotels of America was respected and creatively complemented by renowned interior designer, Jinnie Kim from Boston-based Jinnie Kim
Design. Her team approached the guest room design by responding to the historical architecture and ambiance, as well as the cosmopolitan setting of the hotel.
The rejuvenation features a collection of design elements and amenities that result in a quiet haven of luxury. Soothing neutral colors accented with a punch of cranberry are complemented
by walls finished with linen-like wall coverings, dark mahogany Sapele wood accents, chic Lucite bedside lamps and rich upholstery. Sealy pillow top bedding with 400-count Frette linens,
down comforters and plush pillows offer the ultimate in comfort for a good night's sleep.
The spa-like bathrooms feature exclusive finishes including the Grohe rainshower system, granite countertops, and an environmentally-conscious water management system that is one element
of the hotel's eco-friendly initiatives. Additional in-room conveniences include a 40" high definition LCD television, fully stocked mini-bar, coffee maker, laptop accommodating in-room
safe, dual-line cordless speaker telephones, wireless internet access, iron and ironing board, thick terrycloth bathrobes and slippers. The Knickerbocker's intimate style and gracious
service compliment the smartly designed guestrooms.
"All of our guests, from corporate travelers to those attending important social events, have been surprised and delighted with our dramatic revitalization," said Derek Stockton, regional
director of sales and marketing. "Our heightened level of style and luxury truly reenergizes the Knickerbocker Hotel," he added.
Preserving the Environment
Millennium Hotels & Resorts leaders are dedicated to environmental responsibility, and the list of new eco-friendly policies and initiatives continues to grow. At the Millennium
Knickerbocker Hotel Chicago, energy-efficient lighting, water flow control in baths and linen recycling programs have been instituted. The hotel additionally offers revamped hotel
cleaning processes to eliminate the use of aerosols and introduce eco-friendly cleaning chemicals.
Phase II Scheduled for Spring 2009 Completion
In late December, the second phase of restoration begins, with an expected completion by spring 2009. The final phase of work will include a grand suite, a brand new fitness center, the
entire entrance and lobby, a stunning champagne salon and martini bar, a new dining concept, and refreshed event venues. Designed by the Interior Design Workshop based in San Francisco,
the new look will be reminiscent of the elegance and energy of the 1920s and 1930s - the era in which the hotel originally opened - while offering a decidedly forward-looking feel.
Throughout the hotel, a rich palette of deep red, charcoal, platinum and chocolate will lend opulence and glamour.
The Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel Chicago is located at 163 E. Walton Place in Chicago. For more information or to make reservations, call 312-751-8100 or visit knickerbockerchicago.com.
About Millennium Hotels & Resorts:
Millennium Hotels and Resorts (MHR) is the North American arm of London-based Millennium and Copthorne Hotels plc (MLC). The MHR portfolio includes 14 hotels in the U.S., offering both
business and leisure travelers upscale accommodations in premier locations from major cities to resort areas. Hotels include the Millennium Broadway and The Premier, located in the heart
of New York's Times Square; the historic Millennium Biltmore Hotel in downtown Los Angeles; the Millennium Bostonian, overlooking Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market in Boston; and the
Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel, situated on Chicago's famed Magnificent Mile. For more information or reservations, please call 866-866-8086 or visit www.millenniumhotels.com.