- Interior
Every year, the editors of Condé Nast Traveler choose their favourite hotels, resorts and cruise ships in the world. This so-called 'Gold List' for 2019 was for the first time compiled by the teams from New York and London. The most important news, however, is that there are also two Belgians on the list: Nicolas Schuybroek and Marc Merckx. The architect and interior designer joined forces to turn the former Chicago office building into a trendy hotel with 69 bright rooms. Especially the Corner Suites and Panorama Suites are worth a visit thanks to the 180-degree views of the city.
The art deco building in which the hotel is housed is about 62 metres high and the only high-rise building in the area, making the view of the skyscrapers in Chicago's busy city centre phenomenal. The interior is a warm mix of typical American elements, with a European timelessness and elegance. "We did not want to impose anything on a building so emblematic to the neighborhood. The challenge was to maintain its identity and spirit throughout our work,” we hear at Nicolas Schuybroek Architects. Therefore, many materials and textures of the original building have been preserved: wooden floors, marble and visible concrete.
"The interior is a warm mix of typically American elements, with European timelessness and elegance."
Another reason why this hotel is on Conde Nast's Gold List: the restaurant Café Robey, the lounge on the second floor, the Cabana Club with outdoor pool and the Up Room, the rooftop bar on the thirteenth floor.
Images © Adrian Graut