Beginning in 2011 with its guestroom makeovers, Kimpton’s Hotel Monaco Chicago has been working on completing its full renovations which include updates to their lobby, restaurant and event space. This past May, the hotel unveiled their new look with bold, playful colors and textures. The modernization of their meeting space and lobby come as welcome additions to the already glamorous hotel which was named a Condé Nast Traveler Reader’s Choice 2012 winner and one of US News and World Report’s 2013 Best Hotels.
The revived lobby demands attention with its whimsical patterns, pops of vibrant color, and an alligator-fabric front desk. Susan Caruso of Intra-Spec Hospitality Design created a space that offers globally-inspired themes with a Chicago sensibility and a focus on memorable travel experiences. Vintage photographs feature fashionable ladies in theatrical hats, paying homage to the building’s origins as the D.B. Fisk & Co. hat factory. Highlighting its history, a flat panel TV plays popular movies filmed in Chicago next to black and white photographs of the city’s architecture.
To admire the renovated room, guests can sit on comfortable high back wing chairs which are surrounded by exotic dark wood accents. Focusing on their business travelers, Monaco Chicago designed an 8-seat bar table with built-in power outlets to give guests a way to work in an informal social setting. For added convenience, Power Packs have been made available at the front desk and include an iPhone charger, noise-cancelling headphones and a pre-loaded tablet filled with music and books.
While lounging around or working on a presentation, those in the lobby can enjoy snacks and drinks from the Tavern Menu of South Water Kitchen, adjacent to the hotel. Choose small bites and pair them with local draft beers and craft cocktails. Complimentary coffee from 6 – 10 a.m. and a hosted evening wine hour from 5 – 6 p.m. are also a part of the new services. As a unique treat, the hotel will host rotating entertainment like wine tastings, cocktail demonstrations by South Water Kitchen and a lineup of live music acts.
As part of the project, the Tavern section of South Water Kitchen has received its own facelift with a new tin ceiling, crisp white subway wall tile, a polished brass bar rail, and stone-topped bar to reflect the “working man’s” tavern of the '20s. Behind its redesign was the team of VOA Associates Inc. who added light copper mirrors, antique metals and airy linen chandeliers to give it a more modern feel.
Business travelers will now have the opportunity to host meetings or events in the new 4,100 square-foot event space and 2,700-square-foot ballroom. Monaco Chicago’s “Concierge on Demand” program makes sure to enhance all functions, making it easier for planners. Mahogany and ebony consoles are juxtaposed by geometric mirrors and artful silver lamps, while lush carpeting offers a soft ambiance. With views of the Chicago River outside of the large windows dressed in silver, black and fawn treatments, the event spaces are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Hotel Monaco Chicago’s revived look raises the bar for luxury accommodations in the Windy City. We're definitely excited to see how travelers feel about the new modern vibe.
