The Notary Hotel in Philadelphia (Photo courtesy of Braemar Hotels & Resorts)
The following is a press release from Braemar Hotels & Resorts:
Braemar Hotels & Resorts Inc. (NYSE: BHR) (“Braemar” or the “Company”) today announced the opening of The Notary Hotel in the heart of Downtown Philadelphia. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the former Courtyard by Marriott Philadelphia Downtown underwent a rebranding and renovation in excess of $20 million to create The Notary Hotel. Located at 21 North Juniper Street, the property now features 499 guest rooms and over 10,000 square feet of conference space throughout 12 event rooms. It joins Marriott International’s Autograph Collection® Hotels, a diverse portfolio of approximately 180 independent hotels around the world that reflect unique vision, design and environments.
“After approximately two years of design and construction on The Notary Hotel, we are delighted to finally announce its formal grand opening as a member of the Autograph Collection by Marriott,” said Richard J. Stockton, Braemar’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “As of today, the hotel is available for booking as an Autograph property on Marriott’s central reservation system and elsewhere and will be referred to as The Notary Hotel in all future public communications.”
Braemar Hotels & Resorts is a real estate investment trust (REIT) focused on investing in luxury hotels and resorts.
Ashford has created an Ashford App for the hospitality REIT investor community. The Ashford App is available for free download at Apple’s App Store and the Google Play Store by searching “Ashford.”
Aloft Madrid Gran Vía (Rendering courtesy of Marriott International)
The following is a press release from Marriott International:
Aloft Hotels, Marriott International’s hotel brand for music fans and tech-savvy travellers, brings a new beat to Spain this month with the opening of Aloft Madrid Gran Vía. Located in the vibrant heart of the capital, the new hotel is a stone’s throw from hotspots including the iconic Plaza de España, the hip neighborhood of Malasaña and Chueca overflowing with restaurants and bars, and the shopping district of Gran Via. Designed by world-class architecture firm the Rockwell Group, the property’s tech-forward, future-proofed design is aimed at the next generation of travelers, juxtaposed against the rich history of Gran Vía.
Madrid is a city of contrasts, where modern boulevards open onto ancient Egyptian temples and bustling flea markets border grand palaces and architectural icons dating back to the ninth century. Legendary nightlife and iconic national dishes come as standard from the cosmopolitan city of welcoming madrileños, but the Spanish capital is also home to a few surprises, including secret gardens, incredible art galleries, stunning parks and lakes, as well as the oldest restaurant in the world. With its enviable central location, Aloft Madrid Gran Vía provides the perfect jumping-off point for the next-gen traveller to discover Spain’s historic capital through a modern lens, starting with spectacular panoramic views of some of the city’s most iconic buildings from its rooftop Splash pool and signature cocktails at the W XYZ® bar.
Aloft Madrid Gran Vía (Rendering courtesy of Marriott International)
“Madrid has long topped destination wish-lists for travelers in Europe, thanks to its spirited culture. Aloft Hotels is set to put its own unique spin on the capital’s social scene with live music programming, the hottest emerging artists, and great signature cocktails”, said John Licence, Vice President Premium and Select Brands, Europe at Marriott International.
Staying true to its roots as an innovative incubator brand, Aloft Hotels, in partnership with the Rockwell Group, developed a cohesive design strategy for Aloft Madrid Gran Via that draws on the sense of humor and the vivid color story the brand is known for. In a nod to the brand’s focus on tech and bold use of color, the property’s free-flowing design embraces the “glitch” design trend to aestheticize digital or analog errors, materializing in design details from distorted city art throughout the public spaces and guestrooms. The always-on, buzzing communal areas reflect the eclectic spirit of the city and respond to the needs of the modern traveller, allowing guests to seamlessly transition between work and play.
“Rockwell Group’s design concept celebrates Madrid’s vibrancy and energy,” said Elisa Rodriguez, Studio Leader, Rockwell Group Madrid. “We were inspired by the idea of seeing the city and its people through a kaleidoscope, rendering the resulting images as pixelated, blended, and multifaceted, to create dynamic moments throughout the hotel.”
Each of its 139 spacious guestrooms feature Aloft’s ultra-comfortable beds in the brand’s signature artful, clutter-free and innovative loft layout, 49-inch televisions with Plug & Play connectivity, fast and free Wi-Fi. Additional amenities include the Re:chargeSM fitness center and Splash pool; Tactic, an interactive private creative meeting space with natural light equipped with modern audio-visual hardware; and Re:fuelSM by Aloft, a convenient 24-hour cafe for a quick bite on the go. Marriott brands were the first in the industry to introduce Mobile Key, the industry’s first keyless entry system. Marriott Bonvoy members can use the Marriott Bonvoy app on their smartphone or Apple Watch as their room key wherever available.
The brand’s signature Re:mix® Lounge and W XYZ® bar provide vibrant hubs for locals and travelers alike to socialize and enjoy live music performances as part of the Live At Aloft Hotels music series. The hotel programming will range from cultural, design and tech events, offering a new perspective in this vibrant city.
There are currently 161 Aloft Hotels in 25 countries and territories around the world. In Europe specifically, Aloft Hotels is present in key city-break destinations such as Dublin, London and Liverpool with expected openings in The Hague, Munich and more.
For more information on Aloft Madrid Gran Via please visit www.alofthotels.com.
About Aloft Hotels With over 160 hotels now open in 25 countries and territories around the world, Aloft Hotels, part of Marriott International, Inc., delivers a fresh approach to the traditional staid hotel landscape. For the ‘always on’ next generation of traveler, the Aloft brand offers a tech-forward, vibrant experience and a modern style that is different by design. For more information, please visit www.alofthotels.com and follow along on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Aloft is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy, the new name of Marriott’s travel program replacing Marriott Rewards®, The Ritz- Carlton Rewards®, and Starwood Preferred Guest® (SPG). The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including earning points toward free hotel stays and nights toward Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit MarriottBonvoy.marriott.com.
Marriott International, Inc. Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of more than 7,000 properties in 30 leading hotel brands spanning 131 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company now offers one travel program, Marriott Bonvoy™, replacing Marriott Rewards®, The Ritz-Carlton Rewards®, and Starwood Preferred Guest®(SPG). For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com. In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on Twitter and Instagram.
W Atlanta – Midtown Living Room (Photo courtesy of Marriott International)
The following is a press release from Marriott International:
Georgia is on our mind. W Hotels Worldwide is excited to reveal major upgrades to each of the city’s three W hotels (W Atlanta – Midtown, W Atlanta – Buckhead and W Atlanta – Downtown). Through the vision of talented design partners and the W brand’s own globally renowned design team, a collective of 750+ guestrooms, multiple bars and restaurants and more than 50,000 square feet of innovative meeting space will soon be revealed. These exciting changes in Atlanta are the first of several renovations expected to be completed at W Hotels across North America, as hotel owners are poised to invest $200+ million on renovations showcasing the next generation of W design.
“Atlanta is exploding with culture, creativity and more visitors than ever before,” said Anthony Ingham, Global Brand Leader, W Hotels Worldwide. “From Superbowl LIII to the Peach Drop, Atlanta has solidified its place as a must-go destination for both domestic and international travelers. From its music and culture to its cuisine and architecture, it’s a city that is so diverse and unique we are able to have three distinct hotels within its parameters. We are excited to showcase our bold design with stunning new rooms, restaurants and upgrades to the hot spots our guests love.”
W Atlanta – Midtown As the first W hotel to open in Atlanta in 2009, the 466-room renovation at W Atlanta – Midtown is the first major revamp of the hotel in a decade. As one of the largest W locations in the world, this project marks one of the brand’s biggest single-hotel renovation projects in its 20-year history. The renovation – which just made its debut earlier this month – sits alongside new culinary, retail and entertainment concepts coming to Colony Square, which is connected to the hotel.
Inspired by one of Atlanta’s best-known nicknames – the city in the woods – W Atlanta – Midtown now sports a floral motif with a mod twist across its public spaces that includes the Living Room (W’s energetic & social take on the lobby/bar), Welcome Desk (Check-In) and patio. The open flow of the renovated spaces expands the hotel’s indoor and outdoor seating, ready to welcome locals and travelers to this bustling neighborhood.
Each of the hotel’s reimagined guestrooms (including 33 specialty suites) features playful décor, unique murals by Imaggo Production that are a nod to Atlanta as an epicenter of music and entertainment.
W Atlanta – Buckhead In partnership with Atlanta’s own C+TC Studio (who is designing the guest rooms and iconic rooftop bar, Whiskey Blue), interior designer STUDIO 11 (the visionaries behind the new Living Room), and the brand’s own design team, W Atlanta – Buckhead is showing off its edgy, luxe look as of February 2019.
Celebrating the city’s passions for fashion, design, art and culture, the new design incorporates splashy artwork from local artists throughout the hotel including guestroom art by Lela Brunet, WET Deck (pool deck) mural by Greg Mike, Living Room and Whiskey Blue murals by Chris Veal.
The full-scale renovation of W Atlanta – Buckhead adds a Welcome area, open layout and café-style seating (complete with DJ booth by night) to the Living Room. Here the eye-catching custom mural installation by artist Chris Veal is designed to be an Insta-worthy hit and photos taken in front of it are linked to the hotel’s Instagram account and displayed on the adjacent Polaroid-style screen to make guests and visitors a part of the art in real time.
Enhanced with vibrant colors, headboards, armoires, damask wallcoverings, 55-inch TVs, in-room Nespresso machines, expanded MIX Bars (W’s take on the minibar) and inspiring artwork, the hotel’s 286 guestrooms redefine comfort and playful luxury in the city. All specialty suites (four WOW Suites and one E-WOW Suite) also get special treatment with new artwork and lounge areas, chaises and cocktail cubbies.
The first phase of this renovation project saw the iconic rooftop bar Whiskey Blue reimagined in November 2018. Now the hotel is bringing a new spin to its signature restaurant, Cook Hall, which will re-open fall 2019. In addition, all 11,000 square feet of indoor/outdoor meeting space and FIT (gym) feature new furnishings, lighting, artwork and faster connections.
Local Motives Debuts at W Atlanta – Downtown In a brilliant mash up of art, history and culture, Local Motives, the new restaurant at W Atlanta – Downtown, combines Atlanta’s BeltLine Project, a newfound symbol of revitalization in the city, with beloved street art and flavors as bold as the new look. To capture Atlanta’s creative spirit, local artist and Georgia native Eric Randall collaborated with Puccini Group’s designers to ground the project in an unmistakable sense of place. Randall was tasked with designing and painting large-scale graphics, including the 69’3″ x 9’6″ mural which spans six walls. The restaurant includes a buzzing bar, dining area, café with ample workspace and private dining room with an entrance inspired by Marta train doors. Each area is crafted with stone and concrete, reflecting the neighborhood’s storied industrialization, juxtaposed with pink pastels and vibrant blue hues.
Local Motives lives up to its name with Atlanta staples like Geechie Boy Red Grits and Cheddar (breakfast bowl) as well as luxe-modern indulgences like Beet Tartare, Charred Octopus and curated local selections of meats from Pine Street Market and ingredients from Pure Bliss Organics. Coffee blends are brewed at Docent Coffee, which roasts each batch right on Edgewood Avenue. Handcrafted concoctions at the bar give guests the option to detox or retox with fresh-pressed juices alongside decadent, spiked milkshakes.
These three projects are part of a collective $200 million+ in renovations across the W brand portfolio that is taking place across North America. Other projects include W Washington DC, W Boston, W San Francisco, W Miami and W Montreal.
About W Hotels Worldwide Born from the bold attitude and 24/7 culture of New York City, W Hotels, part of Marriott International, Inc., has disrupted and redefined the hospitality scene for nearly two decades. Trailblazing its way around the globe, with over 50 hotels, W is defying expectations and breaking the norms of traditional luxury wherever the iconic W sign lands. With a mission to fuel guests’ lust for life, W ignites an obsessive desire to soak it in, live it up and hit repeat. The brand’s provocative design, iconic Whatever/Whenever service and buzzing Living Rooms create an experience that is often copied but never matched. Innovative, inspiring and infectious, the brand’s super-charged energy celebrates guests’ endless appetite to discover what’s new/next in each destination, to see more, feel more, go longer, stay later. For more information on W Hotels, visit whotels.com/theangle or follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. W Hotels Worldwide is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy, the new name of Marriott’s travel program replacing Marriott Rewards®, The Ritz- Carlton Rewards®, and Starwood Preferred Guest® (SPG). The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including earning points toward free hotel stays and nights toward Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit MarriottBonvoy.marriott.com.
Amazon today announced Alexa for Hospitality, a new experience offered by invitation to hoteliers that brings the simplicity and convenience of Alexa to hotels, vacation rentals, and other hospitality locations. Using the Amazon Echo in their room, guests can now ask Alexa for hotel information, contact the hotel to request guest services, play music in their room and more. For hotels, Alexa for Hospitality helps deepen guest engagement through seamless voice-first experiences that offer new ways for guests to access services and amenities during their stay. Alexa for Hospitality is available to hospitality providers by invitation starting today, with Marriott International introducing the new Alexa experience at select properties in Marriott Hotels, Westin Hotels & Resorts, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, Aloft Hotels, and Autograph Collection Hotels starting this summer.
“Customers tell us they love how easy it is to get information, enjoy entertainment, and control connected devices by simply asking Alexa, and we want to offer those experiences everywhere customers want them,” said Daniel Rausch, Vice President, Amazon. “Alexa for Hospitality makes your hotel stay a little more like being at home and gives hospitality providers new ways to create memorable stays for their guests.”
“Marriott has a long track record of innovating for our guests, and we’re thrilled to be among the first to offer Alexa for Hospitality,” said Jennifer Hsieh, Vice President Customer Experience Innovation, Marriott International. “So many of our guests use voice technology in their home, and we want to extend that convenience to their travel experience. Guests of Charlotte Marriott City Center and Marriott Irvine Spectrum will be among the first to experience a curated list of Alexa for Hospitality features. We will be evaluating guest feedback and adoption to inform how we expand the skills, features, and functionality offered through Alexa in our hotels.”
An Enjoyable Guest Stay with Alexa
With Alexa for Hospitality, hospitality providers can enable and customize a range of voice-first features based on their guests’ needs. Using an Amazon Echo in their room, guests can ask Alexa for information like pool hours or fitness center location, request hotel services like room service or housekeeping, call the concierge, and more. Alexa can also be configured by hospitality providers to allow guests to control and adjust in-room devices like lights, thermostats, blinds, and TVs to their individual preferences or ask Alexa to play music from popular services including iHeartRadio and TuneIn. Guests can also be given access to thousands of Alexa skills to check airport wait times, play games, get in a quick guided workout, play white noise to help them fall asleep, and more.
Hospitality providers will also have the option to allow their guests to personalize their Alexa in-room experience. Soon, Alexa for Hospitality will support the ability for Amazon customers to temporarily connect their Amazon account to the Alexa-enabled device in their room. Once connected, guests will be able to play their personal music from services including Amazon Music, Spotify, and Pandora; and listen to audiobooks with Audible. When a guest checks out, Alexa for Hospitality automatically disconnects their Amazon account from the in-room device.
Helping Hotels Deliver Memorable Guest Experiences
Alexa for Hospitality makes it easy for vacation rental companies like RedAwning and boutique lifestyle properties within the Two Roads Hospitality portfolio including Thompson Hotels, Joie de Vivre, Destination Hotels and Alila to manage their property experiences and engage with guests. Hospitality providers can provision Echo devices in just minutes to get up and running quickly. Alexa for Hospitality also supports hardware settings like limiting volume level and administrator notifications if a device goes offline. Hoteliers can also use Alexa for Hospitality to measure engagement through analytics and adapt services based on guest feedback.
Hotels can also customize the deployment by selecting default music stations from iHeartRadio stations that match their brand, adding property contacts to order room service or booking a spa treatment, and connecting to custom skills that only their guests can access. For example, Marriott Hotels guests, at properties where Alexa for Hospitality is deployed, can take advantage of the brand’s partnership with TED by requesting Alexa play a TED Talk on mindfulness, creativity or leadership.
Alexa for Hospitality is built to work with existing hotel technologies, reducing or eliminating the need to retrofit or upgrade existing investments, and works with a range of trusted hospitality solution providers. Features developed by DigiValet, Intelity, Nuvola, and Volara allow guests to make requests like “Alexa, order wine,” or “Alexa, book a spa appointment,” with requests routed to hotel property management systems. Alexa for Hospitality also works with popular guest room entertainment providers including World Cinema and GuestTek for voice control of TV experiences, and in-room control of connected devices using Crestron and Inncom by Honeywell.
About Amazon
Amazon is guided by four principles: customer obsession rather than competitor focus, passion for invention, commitment to operational excellence, and long-term thinking. Customer reviews, 1-Click shopping, personalized recommendations, Prime, Fulfillment by Amazon, AWS, Kindle Direct Publishing, Kindle, Fire tablets, Fire TV, Amazon Echo, and Alexa are some of the products and services pioneered by Amazon. For more information, visit www.amazon.com/about and follow @AmazonNews.
The following is a press release from Marriott International:
W Hotels announces the global roll out of WAKE UP CALL, the brand’s signature music festival series that will make stops at three W Hotels this year: W Hollywood (Sept 1-3); W Barcelona (Sept 21-23); and W Bali (Oct 4- 6). Combining the brand’s longstanding passion for music with its signature Whatever/Whenever® philosophy, WAKE UP CALL takes the festival experience off the field and onto fabulous hotel grounds. Available exclusively for members of Marriott International’s award-winning Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) and Marriott Rewards loyalty program, anybody is welcome to join the programs and book. Members can check in and then check out performances throughout the hotel – from WET deck parties to DJ masterclasses and live performances – by some of the hottest acts in music today including Phantogram, Charli XCX, Martin Solveig, Gorgon City, Sam Feldt and Angus & Julia Stone. It’s all access (and perhaps a bit of excess), all the time.
W is throwing out the festival playbook and creating an experience that is as fabulous as it is fun. Where the day begins and ends in luxe accommodations (that don’t require surge prices to get back to). Where pools of mud are replaced by poolside performances. Where endless seas of people give way to Instaworthy views of the sea. Think day beds, not day passes. In other words, it’s time for a real WAKE UP CALL.
“Music is a universal language, one we have spoken since day one at W,” said Anthony Ingham, Global Brand Leader, W Hotels Worldwide. “We’ve brought the Whatever/Whenever mentality to recording artists and guests for years – through concepts like our W Sound Suite recording studios and countless performances in W Living Rooms – all to bring people closer to the music they love. Now we are taking our groundbreaking WAKE UP CALL music festival around the world, disrupting the festival scene in ways that only a W hotel stay can.”
W Hotels is bringing this upgraded and elevated experience exclusively to members of SPG and Marriott Rewards. But elite membership is not a requirement—by simply joining the program online guests can quickly gain access to everything WAKE UP CALL has to offer. When guests visit www.wakeupcallfest.com, existing members of either program can log in with their account information to get festival access; nonmembers can quickly sign up through SPG.
THE STOPS WAKE UP CALL will launch in the U.S. festival capital of Los Angeles at W Hollywood before traveling to the iconic seaside haunt of W Barcelona. From there, WAKE UP CALL will touch down and close out in paradise at the luxe escape of W Bali. This year’s multi-city tour is an expansion of the inaugural WAKE UP CALL, the first music festival to be held entirely at a hotel, which took place at W Scottsdale in 2016. This year the party is bigger, better and goes longer than ever before.
THE LINEUP With a mix of big name artists as well as new/next talent, WAKE UP CALL will include performances by: Phantogram, Charli XCX, Chromeo (DJ Set), Betty Who, Léon and Dancing Pineapple Presents: Codeko, Papa Ya (DJ Set), Christofi and Phil N Good at W Hollywood; Martin Solveig, Gorgon City, Thomas Jack, Boston Bun and special guest Pete Tong at W Barcelona; and Angus & Julia Stone, Sam Feldt and Nightmares On Wax (DJ Set) at W Bali, with more to be announced soon. The WAKE UP CALL experience will go well beyond the music, serving up the W experience every step of the way. Festival revelers can expect everything from workout sessions with top fitness masters to exclusive dishes and cocktails created by W chefs and mixologists only for festival goers. WAKE UP CALL combines the pre-party, the main event, and the post-party, all in one perk-filled package. Plus, SPG and Marriott Rewards members can bid for even more exclusive WAKE UP CALL Moments, including 60-minute DJ master classes, in-suite afterparties with featured artists, and off-site adventures curated by festival talent. To book, visit www.wakeupcallfest.com.
WAKE UP AND GO AGAIN Want it all? Don’t snooze. Presenting WAKE UP CALL: The Complete Set List, a VIP package for the true music-loving jetsetter. Limited to only 1 package, The Complete Set List experience includes: roundtrip airfare to all three WAKE UP CALL festivals, fabulous accommodations, access to all WAKE UP CALL Moments, VIP-only FUEL fitness workout sessions, VIP meet and greets at each festival and more. It doesn’t get any more “all access” than this. Bidding starts at 250,000 points and launches to members on June 19th. Marriott Rewards members who have linked accounts may transfer points into their SPG accounts to bid on the package.
For tickets and to join SPG and Marriott Rewards, visit www.wakeupcallfest.com. Keep up with us on social using #WAKEUPCALLFEST, @WHotels.
Passing on the party? Have no fear, you can still get close to the music. Tune in to SPG’s YouTube channel to catch live performances from every location, exclusive artist interviews, and so much more. Don’t miss a minute. Watch here – https://www.youtube.com/spg.
About W Hotels Worldwide Born from the bold attitude and 24/7 culture of New York City, W Hotels, part of Marriott International, Inc., has disrupted and redefined the hospitality scene for nearly two decades. Trailblazing its way around the globe, with more than 50 hotels, W Hotels defies expectations and breaks the norms of traditional luxury wherever the iconic W sign lands. With a mission to fuel guests’ lust for life, W ignites an obsessive desire to soak it in, live it up and hit repeat. The brand’s provocative design, iconic Whatever/Whenever service and buzzing Living Rooms create an experience that is often copied but never matched. Innovative, inspiring and infectious, the brand’s super-charged energy celebrates guests’ endless appetite to discover what’s new/next in each destination, to see more, feel more, go longer, stay later. W Hotels Worldwide is proud to participate in the industry’s award-winning loyalty program, Starwood Preferred Guest®. Members can now link accounts with Marriott Rewards®, which includes The Ritz-Carlton Rewards® at members.marriott.com for instant elite status matching and unlimited points transfer. For more information on W Hotels, visit whotels.com/theangle or follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
About Marriott Rewards Marriott International’s award-winning loyalty program – Marriott Rewards – spans 18 unique and iconic global brands and nearly 4,800 distinctive properties. Members of Marriott Rewards® – which includes The Ritz-Carlton Rewards® – can link their accounts with Starwood Preferred Guest® at members.marriott.com for expanded benefits including instant elite status matching and unlimited points transfer across portfolios. When members book their stays on Marriott.com or the Marriott Mobile app, they earn loyalty points, enjoy the advantage of exclusive Member Rates, our lowest available rates, and gain an elevated stay experience with free Wi-Fi, mobile check-in and checkout, and Mobile Service Requests wherever available. The hugely popular Marriott Rewards has won the Freddie Award for “Hotel Program of the Year–Americas” nine consecutive years as chosen by frequent travelers. Marriott Rewards is free to join and has no blackout dates. To enroll and for more information about the program, guests may visit MarriottRewards.com. Connect with Marriott Rewards on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
About Starwood Preferred Guest Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG®) is an innovative, award-winning frequent traveler program that unites 11 luxury and distinctive hotel brands in nearly 1,500 properties around the world. SPG reinvented the hospitality loyalty landscape when it launched in 1999 with its breakthrough policy of no blackout dates, and over the years has continued its tradition of innovation with enhancements such as Cash + Points, Your24™, SPG Lifetime™, SPG Moments and 4 p.m. late checkout when available. SPG also offers the opportunity for meeting and travel professionals to earn rich rewards including Starpoints and elite status through SPG Pro. SPG has an ongoing commitment to meeting the needs of today’s connected global traveler by leveraging must-have mobile apps for iPhone, iPad, and Android that utilize state-aware technology to create a more personalized hotel stay. All of this has helped SPG build a passionate member base among the world’s most frequent travelers. Learn more about the #spglife at spg.com, spg.com/pro and spg.com/moments and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. SPG members can now also link their accounts with Marriott Rewards® – which includes The Ritz-Carlton Rewards® – for instant elite status matching and unlimited points transfer at spg.com/Marriott.
The following is a press release from Marriott International:
Aloft Hotels, Marriott International’s brand for music lovers and music makers, and Universal Music Group & Brands (UMGB), the brand strategy division of Universal Music Group (UMG), the world leader in music-based entertainment, today launched the 2018 edition of Aloft Hotels’ artist discovery competition Project: Aloft Star, and unveiled the first-ever Project: Aloft Star Tour, a five-city tour celebrating UMG’s emerging artists.
Starting today, musicians can enter for a chance to win a once-in-a-lifetime prize that includes1:
An opportunity to record a single at the legendary Capitol Studios in Hollywood
Mentoring from UMG’s executives which will include help selecting a song to record
500,000 Rewards points2redeemable for Marriott International hotel stays and other rewards
This year’s Project: Aloft Star mentors, the X Ambassadors, will guide the three Project: Aloft Star finalists3 and help them prepare for their finale performance. “We were lucky to have so many wonderful mentors growing up,” said Sam Harris of X Ambassadors. “We’re thrilled to be working with Aloft Hotels to support emerging talent as this year’s Project: Aloft Star Mentor.”
The Project: Aloft Star contest and tour is part of Marriott International’s first-of-its-kind global partnership with UMG, which has evolved to include a focus on developing emerging talent.
“Aloft Hotels has always been the brand for music makers and music lovers, but now through our collaboration with UMG, we’re able to support emerging artists in a more meaningful way than ever before,” said Toni Stoeckl, Global Brand Leader, Aloft Hotels; and Vice President, Distinctive Select Brands for Marriott International. “The opportunity to record a single with one of UMG’s prestigious labels and receive dedicated mentoring from the best in the industry is very rare, and we’re so glad to be able to bring this to emerging talent all over the world.”
“Aloft Hotels is a terrific partner that shares our dedication to the artist community,” said Mike Tunnicliffe, head of UMGB. “At UMG, everything we do starts with our commitment to fostering emerging talent. This year’s Project: Aloft Star Tour not only promotes this competition but also provides our developing artists with an opportunity to reach new fans across the country. We’re thrilled to expand our relationship with Marriott International, and we continue to work together to build progressive long-term campaigns together.”
Tank & the Bangas performing at Aloft Austin Downtown during the 2018 South by Southwest by Southwest Conference and Festivals (Photo courtesy of Marriott International, Inc.)
Project: Aloft Star Tour To inspire emerging talent to enter this year’s competition, Aloft Hotels is taking some of UMG’s hottest breakthrough artists on the road, hitting some of the great music cities to host intimate music performances in the brand’s signature W XYZ® bars. The free performances will kick off with Years & Years in Philadelphia on June 23, and will continue in four other locations, including Tank & the Bangas in New Orleans on August 9 and BANNΞRS in Denver on October 17. At each tour stop, fans will be able to collect an exclusive custom memento poster featuring art created by New York designer and illustrator Sophia Chang. The final tour stop will be held in Austin on November 1where the Project: Aloft Star finalists will perform in front of a panel of industry judges that includes representatives from UMG and live music discovery platform Bandsintown, and a winner will be chosen.
Global Footprint As a truly global hotel brand, concurrent competitions are also running with Aloft Hotels and UMG in the Middle East & Africa and Asia Pacific to find the next big music stars in these regions. As in the Americas, winners in these regions will have the opportunity to record a single with UMG and gain access to mentoring opportunities with UMG representatives. Each region will have their own local celebrity UMG mentors, including names such as Salim Merchant in India and Rachel Liang in Greater China. Aloft Hotels in Europe will also be launching an initiative under the Project: Aloft Star banner to support emerging artists later this year.
Loyalty Member Exclusive Moments While the tour is open to everyone to join, the best way to experience it will be as a member of Marriott’s award-winning loyalty programs Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) and Marriott Rewards. Special member benefits will include an NYC preview concert and destination packages, all available for redemption with Starpoints and Marriott Rewards points through SPG Moments and Marriott Rewards Moments.
Skip the Line: All Marriott Rewards and SPG members will be able to skip the line to get first access to the tour events, ensuring no member misses out on seeing their favorite band or artist.
Artist Meet & Greets: All Marriott Rewards and SPG members will be able to attend members-only Meet & Greets with the artists following their performances.
Member Preview Concert: On June 14th SPG and Marriott Rewards members who redeemed the experience on either Moments platform will attend an intimate acoustic performance by BANNΞRSand VIP hang-out with X Ambassadors in New York City. The preview concert will give loyalty members a sneak peek at the programming expected during the Project: Aloft Star Tour, including festival-inspired food & tech-driven beverage concepts.
VIP Concert Packages featuring a two-night stay at one of the Aloft hotel stops on this year’s tour, artist merch and VIP talent meet and greet will be available for members on the Marriott Rewards Moments and SPG Moments platforms. Loyalty members may also redeem their Starpoints or Marriott Rewards points to attend a VIP experience at the Project: Aloft Star finale in Austin.
Aloft – the Hotel For Music Makers and Music Lovers Aloft Hotels has been an incubator for emerging musical talent for a decade. All Aloft Hotels around the world host regular live music evenings in their W XYZ® bars with local up-and-coming talent as part of the brand’s Live At Aloft Hotels music program.
Aloft Hotels are in thriving music destinations, welcoming touring musicians with special discounted artist rates, the opportunity to use the W XYZ® bar as a performance space for free, and a musicians’ guide featuring everything from where to dine late-night after a gig, the best nearby affordable recording studio, where to purchase guitar strings, and more to hit the right note for each stay.
UMG and Marriott International Partnership Since UMG and Marriott International first started working together in 2015, the global partnership has grown to encompass Marriott’s expanded portfolio and has come to life through concerts showcasing UMG’s premiere talent at Marriott properties across the globe, most recently at an emerging female-led artist showcase at Aloft Austin Downtown during the 2018 South by Southwest® (SXSW®) Conference and Festivals.
Project: Aloft Star Americas Contest Details
Starting June 12 until August 20, unsigned bands and artists across North America and in select countries in Latin America, are invited to upload up to two original songs (in video or audio format) along with a photo through alofthotels.com for consideration by a panel of judges from UMG, Aloft Hotels and live music discovery platform Bandsintown.
The panel will select three finalists to progress to Phase II of the competition where the finalists will receive a mentoring session from X Ambassadors.
From September 17 through October 22, fans and music lovers are encouraged to vote for their favorite of the artists.
All three finalists will perform at the Project: Aloft Star finale at Aloft Austin Downtown on November 1. The winner will then be chosen from a combination of the public vote and the panel of judges’ scores.
For full details about the competition in all four regions, to enter the competition, or to find out about the Project: Aloft Star tour and sign up for tickets, please visit www.alofthotels.com.
Entry Period: No purchase nec. 18+. Ends 8/20/18. For Rules visit alofthotels.com.
About Aloft Hotels With more than 125 hotels now open in nearly 20 countries and territories around the world, Aloft Hotels, part of Marriott International, Inc., delivers a fresh approach to the traditional staid hotel landscape. For the ‘always on’ next generation of traveler, the Aloft brand offers a tech-forward, vibrant experience and a modern style that is different by design. Aloft is proud to participate in the industry’s award-winning loyalty program, Starwood Preferred Guest®. Members can now link accounts with Marriott Rewards®, which includes The Ritz-Carlton Rewards® at members.marriott.com for instant elite status matching and unlimited points transfer. For more information, please visit www.alofthotels.com and follow along on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
About Marriott International, Inc.
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of more than 6,500 properties in 30 leading hotel brands spanning 127 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company also operates award-winning loyalty programs: Marriott Rewards®, which includes The Ritz-Carlton Rewards®, and Starwood Preferred Guest®. For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com. In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on Twitter and Instagram.
About Universal Music Group Universal Music Group (UMG) is the world leader in music-based entertainment, with a broad array of businesses engaged in recorded music, music publishing, merchandising and audiovisual content in more than 60 countries. Featuring the most comprehensive catalog of recordings and songs across every musical genre, UMG identifies and develops artists and produces and distributes the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful music in the world. Committed to artistry, innovation and entrepreneurship, UMG fosters the development of services, platforms and business models in order to broaden artistic and commercial opportunities for our artists and create new experiences for fans. Universal Music Group is a Vivendi company. Find out more at: http://www.universalmusic.com.
1 In the Americas – prizes in Europe, Middle East & Africa and Asia Pacific will vary. 2 In August 2018, you will be able to combine your Marriott Rewards account with your SPG account, so you’ll have one account with one member number, one profile, one log-in and one points balance, and you will be able to redeem points at any of our more than 6,500 hotels across 29 hotel brands. 3 In the Americas – Europe, Middle East & Africa and Asia Pacific will have different local mentors.
The following is a press release from White Lodging:
The dynamic River North neighborhood of Chicago welcomed a new hotel brand to the neighborhood today, Marriott International’s playful Moxy Chicago. Developed by White Lodging and Friedman Properties, and managed by White Lodging, the 156-bedroom hotel, situated on the corner of Grand Avenue and LaSalle Drive, fully embraces modern fun-hunting travelers with its spirit and style.
“Moxy flips the conventional hotel experience on its head, and we’re excited to bring this vibrant concept to Chicago for the first time with the opening of Moxy Chicago Downtown,” said Vicki Poulos, Senior Global Brand Director, Moxy Hotels. “We want to give guests and locals alike license to play with us – whether that’s taking part in trivia night, or enjoying some of the fun programming we have at all of our hotels that captures the flavor of the city we are in.”
Moxy offers a new way of traveling which is smaller in concentration, yet not a reduction in experience. The brand caters to today’s free-spirited traveler who is looking for a hotel with friendly service and premium comforts in an environment that allows them to connect with relevant and authentic local experiences. Moxy’s creative brand identity aims to engage business and leisure travelers with a warm, thoughtful and playful guest experience.
Designed by Texas-based Flick Mars and global integrated design firm DLR Group, the public and private areas follow Moxy’s design-forward sensibility with tech-enabled bedrooms and vibrant lobby, lounge and bar spaces. Exceptionally efficient guest rooms provide everything travelers need and nothing they don’t. These thoughtful modifications make room for things that matter more, like the 49″ Smart TV and a sumptuous bed with fine linens and exceptional pillows.
In the lobby, guests will discover industrial-chic communal spaces filled with a warm and engaging mix of modern and vintage-inspired furniture and light fixtures.
Bar Moxy in the lobby will be the hub of the hotel, serving as the “front desk” where guests check in, receive their room key and sip a complimentary ‘Got Moxy’ signature cocktail. The bar will also be the place to drink, eat, and socialize where the energy will build throughout the day. The morning features a laid back vibe and is the only place in River North to get the local premium coffee. During the day it is a place to linger, work, and meet, but later, it will become “the place to be” for happy hour and features a curated music program into the evening with activations including spinning DJs and the Moxy SoundOff booth, featuring live podcasting and psychic readings.
Moxy Chicago Downtown will be home to Zombie Taco, which is a 24-7 food truck inspired concept with global flavors serving tacos, healthy bowls, burritos, and other fresh, made-to-order items. Zombie Taco will be the ideal stop for lunch, the perfect fuel to keep the night going, and everything in between. Need your taco to go? Try the walk-up window located on LaSalle for quick convenient service. For those looking for other food options, head to Moxy Pick-Ups in Bar Moxy for locally roasted coffee, baked goods, freshly prepared grab-and-go items, and locally sourced snacks from unique brands.
The hotel is the 29th Moxy Hotel to open globally and the seventh Moxy Hotel in the United States.
About Moxy Hotels: Moxy Hotels is Marriott International’s new millennial-focused brand that debuted in September 2014 with the opening of the Moxy Milan. A boutique-hotel concept for the next-Gen traveler, Moxy is a fresh and innovative brand combining stylish design and approachable service at an affordable price point. With tech-enabled rooms, vibrant lobby spaces and warm, modern service, Moxy aims to surprise travelers with a thoughtful, spirited and fun guest experience. Moxy Hotels is proud to participate in the industry’s award-winning loyalty program, Marriott Rewards® which includes The Ritz-Carlton Rewards®. Members can now link accounts with Starwood Preferred Guest® at members.marriott.com for instant elite status matching and unlimited points transfer. To learn more about Moxy Hotels, visit www.MoxyHotels.com.
About Marriott International, Inc. Marriott International, Inc. is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of more than 6,500 properties in 30 leading hotel brands spanning 127 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company also operates award-winning loyalty programs: Marriott Rewards®, which includes The Ritz-Carlton Rewards®, and Starwood Preferred Guest®. For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com. In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on Twitter and Instagram.
White Lodging Services Corporation, established in 1985, is one of the leading hotel ownership, development, and management companies in America. An innovative trendsetter, the organization’s portfolio includes convention, urban lifestyle, and suburban select service hotels. White Lodging operates more than 90 premium hotels, 30 restaurants and 30 brands — including Marriott International, Hilton Worldwide, Hyatt, and InterContinental Hotel Group — in 19 states. Success knows no boundaries at White Lodging, where associates and leadership have consistently earned superior guest satisfaction scores, top market share and industry-leading profit margins while recruiting the best, brightest, and most passionate professionals in every discipline for three decades. For more information about White Lodging, visit www.whitelodging.com, or connect on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.
Friedman Properties, Ltd.: Friedman Properties, Ltd. owns, leases and manages a portfolio of 50+ buildings totaling over 4 million square feet including office, retail, residential, parking, event and hospitality space. Partnering with restaurants, hotels, artists, entrepreneurs, and civic leaders, Friedman Properties has transformed River North into the city’s most desirable 24-hour live/work/play destination. Since the 1970’s, their progressive approach to ownership in River North continues to guide the company’s development in projects throughout the city and suburbs. Innovative design, creative leasing, and excellence in tenant service put Friedman Properties’ buildings among the best that Chicago real estate has to offer. For more information about Friedman Properties, visit www.friedmanproperties.com, or connect on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.
The following is a press release from Marriott International:
The dynamic design strategy guiding Renaissance Hotels has hit its stride. The brand revealed today significant momentum in its growing global portfolio and investment by its property owners in marquee renovations around the world. This year, nearly half of the brands hotels in North America are scheduled to complete dramatic transformations, from to Newport Beach, with the brand also slated to debut in 16 new neighborhoods globally in the next 12 months, including Chelsea, Philadelphia, Warsaw, Taipei and Hangzhou.
“We have been on a journey to evolve our hotels’ design to reflect what the Renaissance brand offers today: a sense of clever theatricality and an open invitation to experience something a little unexpected during our guests’ travels,” said George Fleck, Vice President of Global Brand Marketing & Management, Renaissance Hotels. “The brand’s design momentum coupled with our engaging Navigators and entertaining Evening Bar Rituals are sure to inspire stories worth sharing among travelers and locals alike.”
Renaissance Hotels Reveals the Grit & Glamour of Beloved Neighborhoods around the Globe
Renaissance Hotels encourages travelers to discover the hidden gems that give neighborhoods their soul: from underground art to local cuisines. Inspired by the notion that Renaissance Hotels can set the scene for the spontaneous to happen, the brand’s design strategy leverages architecture, interiors and art together – creating engaging elements at every turn and inviting guests to go “off-script” and experience something they weren’t planning.
“Whether a new build, conversion or renovation, the design of each Renaissance hotel employs different principles to create a dynamic tension and theatrical spirit that introduces an unexpected sense of the neighborhood to our guests,” said David Kepron, Vice President, Global Brand Design Strategies, Marriott International. “There is an overarching and recognizable design DNA that sets the stage for stories worth re-telling, but Chelsea will feel very different than Charleston, as will Paris and Philadelphia.”
Balagan, the new cocktail bar and restaurant anchoring Renaissance Paris Vendome Hotel (Rendering courtesy of Marriott International, Inc.)
Following the recent marquee opening of Renaissance Paris Republique Hotel, the brand will see even more transformation in Paris, with the completion of a multi-million dollar renovation of Renaissance Paris Vendome Hotel this month. Designed by Didier Gomez, the intimate 97-room hotel is inspired by the fashion designers and jewelers that have had their salons in the square. With creatively layered patterns and textures throughout the interiors, each guestroom features statement art pieces of French feminine style that wrap the ceiling, a signature of the brand. The hotel’s transformation is anchored by its new cocktail bar & restaurant Balagan – a Hebrew name meaning “Joyful Bazar” – born of a collaboration between the renowned Experimental Group, acclaimed Israeli chefs Assaf Granit and Uri Navon, and the designer Dorothée Meilichzon, which opened last year.
Also opening in Spring, Renaissance Philadelphia Downtown Hotel will boast a theatrical design reframing the historic fabric of the city with a modern energy, contrasting materiality and unexpected pop art throughout the hotel: from a reimagined lobby, reminiscent of Elfreth’s alley in Old Town anchored by a 100′ graffiti wall designed by local artist Dan Murphy, to the hotel’s restaurant, which features portraits of Benjamin Franklin’s five mistresses created with pixelated $100 bills.
Next year the brand is slated to introduce Renaissance New York Chelsea South Hotel, a new build on the former Antiques Garage Flea Market site, from which it will draw inspiration. Giving a wink-and-nod to the neighboring floral district, the hotel will weave together design elements of an indigenous flea market and secret garden with a dramatic staircase taking center stage in the lobby: a collection of contrasting modern and antique door knobs, locks, and keys.
Guestroom at Renaissance Harlem Hotel, scheduled to open in 2020. (Rendering courtesy of Marriott International, Inc.)
The Renaissance Harlem Hotel is scheduled to open in 2020, restoring and playfully reimagining the Victoria’s Loews Theatre, which was at the center of the vibrant “Harlem Renaissance” era in the 1920s and 1930s when art began to flourish in northern Manhattan. With approximately 200 guestrooms and suites, the hotel will exude polished glamour with a nod to the grit and tenacity of the destination’s triumphant past.
Renaissance Hotels Reimagines Airport Hotels for Today’s ‘Road Warrior’, from Amsterdam to Atlanta
As global air travel demand continues to grow year over year, according to the International Air Transport Association, there is an increasing opportunity to reimagine airport hotels through design and signature experiences. “Shouldn’t road warriors enjoy a touch of the unexpected, too? It’s about letting a place have its own voice, something you can’t find anywhere else,” said Lauren Rottet, Founding Principal, Rottet Studio, which designed Renaissance Atlanta Airport Gateway Hotel.
Renaissance Hotels plans to open two airport hotels this year: Renaissance WarsawAirport Hotel this Spring, which will mark the brand’s debut in Poland, and Renaissance AmsterdamSchiphol Airport Hotel in November 2018. In North America, this momentum follows the recent opening of Renaissance Atlanta Airport Gateway Hotel and the design-driven renovation of Renaissance Los Angeles Airport Hotel, which just completed this month.
The design of the Renaissance AmsterdamSchiphol Airport Hotel draws inspiration from Amsterdam Bos, the city’s largest park situated adjacent to the hotel. Because the verdurous park was created in the beginning of the twentieth century, at the same time as Dutch modern art, architecture and design gained popularity, the hotel is peppered with playful unexpected moments that reveal a sense of time and place. Notably, the interiors juxtapose a natural color palette with high gloss furniture, contemporary accents and a modern twist on famous Dutch art throughout the public spaces, buzzy bar and guestrooms.
In Poland, the Renaissance brand is bound to make a splash with the debut its first hotel in Warsaw. Looking to the avant-garde modernism of the 1930s, 1960s and today, the hotel’s design features modern pops of primary colors in its art, textiles and furniture, inspired by the fashion, graphic design and pop culture of the time. Celebrating the inherent creative tension in Polish modern design, the hotel is poised to set a new standard for the staid airport experience.
Renaissance Hotels Shakes Up the Scene with Brand Debuts in Indonesia and Taiwan
Last month, the brand debuted in Indonesia with the opening of Renaissance Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa, reinterpreting the destination’s cliff-fringed coastlines throughout the resort with artfully designed interiors created with contrasting materials, such as rattan furniture paired with Ikat textiles. In June, Renaissance Taipei Shihlin Hotel is scheduled to debut as the brand’s first hotel in Taiwan, opening in the buzzing Shilin district famous for its street art and night markets.
These two hotel openings will follow on the heels of last year’s opening of Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai in the thriving Business Bay district, inspiring spontaneous discovery through design – to which there is no better example than the artwork in each guestroom: a close-up black and white photograph of a camel smirking; and above the bed, Pablo Picasso’s famed camel sketch is reimagined into a cheeky, 3D iron rod sculpture – both playful jests to reframe your stay.
About Renaissance Hotels With over 160 hotels in more than 35 countries and territories around the world, Renaissance Hotels has a dynamic global portfolio. Designed for spontaneous global travelers, Renaissance Hotels extends an open invitation to experience the unexpected both inside and out of the hotel. Distinctly local, personalized service is brought to life through each hotel’s engaging Navigators, the brand’s ambassadors who connect you to the locale and help you discover the neighborhood’s hidden gems and handpicked local discoveries. To learn more visit www.renhotels.com; like us on Facebook; follow us on Twitter @RenHotels, Instagram and YouTube.
The following is a press release from Marriott International:
Times Square remains the beating heart of Manhattan, and now travelers can be at the center of the action while still having space to reflect with the opening of the new AC Hotel New York Times Square.
The Midtown hotel melds an urban vibe with classic elements that hark back to the brand’s Spanish roots. The entrance lobby is 23 feet high with a large, open staircase to the lower level illuminated by a skylight shed roof. Its 290 guest rooms will offer an oasis in the midst of the bustle of NYC with a sleek and classic modern style. With options like floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies, guests can enjoy unparalleled city views.
AC Hotel New York Times Square features two food and beverage experiences. The beloved NYC restaurant Boqueriawill bring its lively Spanish tapas and signature convivial spirit to 260 West 40th Street, adjacent to the new AC Hotel lobby. The restaurant features a location-specific breakfast menu, a large rotisserie, and time-honored favorites like Pan Con Tomate, Pulpo a la Plancha, and Paella de Mariscos from Catalan chef Marc Vidal. Castell, a year-round rooftop lounge will be open to guests and locals alike when it debuts in May 2018, serving up views of NYC’s iconic skyline along with shareable plates, Happy Hour rituals and cocktails, including the brand’s signature Gin & Tonic.
“We are delighted to introduce New York City to the AC brand’s ‘New Way to Hotel,'” says Corry Oakes, President/CEO of OTO Development, the Johnson Management company that developed and operates the new hotel. “In addition to intriguing architectural details, local artwork in common spaces, and dynamic culinary options at Boqueria and Castell Lounge, what guests will truly appreciate is having space to breathe in this city that never sleeps.”
AC Hotel New York Times Square brings travelers the best of contemporary European architecture infused with the design-forward spirit of the NYC Fashion District, as interpreted by Helpern Architects. Visitors are drawn into the elegant, double-height lobby via a granite-paved plaza; as they enter through the pleated glass façade, they become immediately aware of the signature materials such as Venetian terrazzo, quarter-sawn dark walnut millwork, and the dark patina of statuary bronze that makes the whole area glow. The modern-day grand stair that wraps top to bottom of the lobby and the large, open well-lit space make for the perfect backdrop for the property’s impressive art installations.
“With the Spanish heritage of the AC Hotels by Marriott brand, our design-driven hotel brings new inspiration to the city,” says Benjamin Britton, General Manager of AC Hotel New York Times Square. “We provide everything essential you need – and nothing you don’t – creating a seamless, tranquil and frictionless experience for our guests, whether they’re traveling for business or leisure.”
The AC Hotel in Times Square has developed signature programming, with attention to detail at every step – each one crafted to encourage guests to slow down in this hectic city. With elements such as lavender sachets at turndown (freshly made each day) to help promote better sleep, guests will feel taken care of but not fussed over. Other amenities include a 24-hour fitness center, 3,365 square feet of event space, and an AC Market featuring locally sourced items such as Hell’s Kitchen Hot Sauces.
“At AC Hotels, everything is done with intention while creating harmony – we believe if we have time to make it, we have time to make it beautiful,” said Benoit Racle, Global Brand Leader, AC Hotels by Marriott. “We are so pleased to welcome AC Hotel New York Times Square to the AC Hotels family as our first New York City property, and to be able to offer visitors and locals in Manhattan a tranquil space in the heart of the city to relax, reflect and reset.”
The purposeful design of AC Hotel New York Times Square features a collection of artwork by a mix of local and well-known artists. Ranging from sculptures to abstract painting, these expressive pieces are visible in shared spaces to inspire guests during their stay – one could almost call it a private art gallery. Guest room walls feature photography of New York City’s unique and iconic architecture such as Fulton Street Station and the Oculus.
This new AC Hotel is perfectly positioned near the Garment District and only a half-block from the Times Square public transportation hub.
The hotel is the first of two planned for the European-inspired AC Hotels by Marriott brand in Manhattan this year, with a second property expected to open in the Financial District later in 2018.
About AC Hotels by Marriott AC Hotels by Marriott®, a lifestyle brand that celebrates a new way to hotel complemented by a European soul and Spanish roots, boasts more than 120 design-led hotels in 15 countries and territories. Design-driven AC Hotels by Marriott® edit away the unnecessary to remove friction, providing thoughtfully designed moments of beauty, allowing guests to focus on what’s important to them. The properties modern design for modern business include buzzing AC Lounges, the perfect place for locals or visitors to get work done in style or to enjoy handcrafted cocktails and tapas. High-design guest rooms and public spaces with sleek furnishings and intuitive technology features such as the Media Salons and AC Libraries inspire and connect. AC Hotels by Marriott® is proud to participate in the industry’s award-winning loyalty program, Marriott Rewards® which includes The Ritz-Carlton Rewards®. Members can now link accounts with Starwood Preferred Guest® at members.marriott.com for instant elite status matching and unlimited points transfer. For more information, visit ac-hotels.com. For more information, visit http://achotels.marriott.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Filmmaker Ari Fitz and model Ralph Souffrant at the opening of Moxy Amsterdam Houthavens, the brand’s first hotel in The Netherlands. (Photo courtesy of Marriott International, Inc.)
The following is a press release from Marriott International:
TV personality Koen van Dijk, actress Holly Mae Brood and world-class Dutch DJLa Fuente were among the faces joining Moxy Hotels, Marriott International’s experiential hotel brand, on April 19, 2018, when they hosted an irreverently nautical Coming Out Party to celebrate the brand’s entrance to The Netherlands. Inspired by the city’s waterways and the hotel’s dockside location in the regenerated Houthavens area, a former lumber yard and still a working dock, the Moxy Crew lowered the gangplank and hosted around 400 guests who walked the plank and ‘Played On’ #atthemoxy.
The party for Moxy Amsterdam Houthavens brought out the playful character of both Amsterdam and the Moxy brand through a series of Land & Sea-inspired experiences including ‘playrooms’ where guests were encouraged to leave their inhibitions at the door and indulge their rebellious side.
Land truly met sea in the entranceway where guests were invited to hop aboard a boat filled to the brim with Amsterdam’s famous florals. In the ‘Wet and Wild’ adult-only pool party, the area was transformed into a secret satellite bar with Moxy lifeguards serving guests in the pool. Meanwhile, the ‘Into the Woods’ playroom lured guests into a lumberjack-inspired lair through a tunnel of branches and vines revealing a ‘tableau vivant’ immersive performance.
“Through bold programming and fun local partners that speak to the dynamism of the location, Moxy created an unforgettable party that spoke perfectly to modern travelers and the local creative community,” said John Licence, VP Premium and Select Brands, Europe at Marriott International. “Amsterdam is renowned for its irreverent and playful spirit, making it an ideal destination for Moxy Hotels to make a splash.”
DJ Wantigga got the party started with his electronic hip-hop tracks whilst headliner DJ La Fuente kept guests and local VIPs dancing into the early hours. Local distiller Bols served guests cocktails with cheeky Amsterdam twists including the Red Light Negroni, a nod to the city’s risqué side, which was served in an actual light bulb.
Also unveiled at the party was the latest edition of #BlankCanvas, Moxy’s global brand programme that calls on international emerging artists to submit works for the opportunity to debut their art at new Moxy hotels. Artist Kristel Steenbergen was on hand to present her winning mural – The Amsterdam Jungle. Kristel brings the bustling capital to life by illustrating the fashionable and modern culture of Amsterdam juxtaposed as a jungle. The design moves left to right, from day to night, to tell the story of a day in the life of the many personalities residing in Amsterdam, portrayed by different animals. For those looking for a lasting reminder of the #BlankCanvas mural and their Moxy experience, local tattoo parlour Ink District was on hand to ink guests with designs taken directly from Kristel’s artwork.
“Amsterdam is a city that pushes boundaries—it’s a city after our own heart as Moxy throws the traditional hotel rulebook out the window,” said Vicki Poulos, Global Brand Leader, Moxy Hotels. “Our Coming Out party is our way of signaling to travelers and local Amsterdammers that when you come to Moxy, your experience will be a true flavour of the spirit and edginess of the city you are in.”
Moxy’s fun, inclusive and playful spirit is reflected in the combination of bold design and edgy style where communal engagement is at the center of the experience. The Moxy Amsterdam Houthavens experience kicks-off with a bright, airy and buzzing lobby. The full-service bar is the hub of activity in the lobby doubling as the hotel’s physical check-in desk, where guests are greeted with a complimentary ‘Got Moxy’ cocktail upon arrival.
The Living Room is another center of activity, giving guests ways to work and play hard. Sealed concrete floors, walls lined with intriguing art referencing local culture creates a high-energy yet cozy space for fun gatherings, special events or cocktails. The hotel’s event space on the top floor features panoramic views of the Houthavens dock yard and cheeky design touches.
The 24/7 B&F (Beverage & Food) self-service concept gives guests access to what they want, whenever they want it, in a smart and fun way. The Grab’n’Go station offers lots of options for food and drink including fresh juices, coffee, paninis, and salads.
Many of the 120 contemporary bedrooms have sweeping views of Amsterdam’s famous waterways and offer a functional, flexible and uncluttered design as well as 43″ flat-screen TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, abundant USB ports, and MUK toiletries.
Guests looking to re-energize can head to the hotel’s gym, The Athletic Club, offering everything from retro pink punching bags and gymnastic rings to modern fitness equipment as well as an array of training sessions led by experts in strength and conditioning, kickboxing, yoga, Pilates, and more. The Athletic Club also features a swimming pool, sauna and wellness centre.
Moxy Amsterdam Houthavens marks the brand’s debut in The Netherlands. The Moxy brand continues to advance its strong presence with plans to expand into more than 40 new destinations in both fast-growing and established markets in Europe in the next three years, as well as multiple destinations in the U.S. and Asia.
About Moxy Hotels Moxy Hotels is Marriott International’s new experiential, design-driven, brand that debuted September 2014 in Europeand has since introduced locations in Berlin, New Orleans, the United Kingdom, Vienna, etc. A boutique-hotel concept for the modern traveler, Moxy is a fresh and innovative brand combining stylish design and approachable service at an affordable price point. With tech-enabled rooms, vibrant lobby spaces and warm service, Moxy aims to surprise travelers with a playful, spirited and fun guest experience. To learn more about Moxy Hotels, visit www.MoxyHotels.com.
