Yesterday, Chicago welcomed a new property to the neighborhood with the opening of the 293-room Gray hotel. Located in the former New York Life Insurance Building, the Kimpton hotel features custom-made materials that pay homage to the city and original pieces of art made by locals.
The simplistic, modern décor was created by interior design firm Beleco and is juxtaposed with the building’s original 1900’s architecture. Guestrooms are clothed in gray palettes accented by brass, blue and gold, while offering a more minimal approach to over-the-top furnishings and amenities.
With a focus on its local surroundings, the property has partnered with several brands to offer guests a taste of the Windy City during their stay. In each guest room, a Tie Bar (Chicago’s homegrown brand) mini bar provides men with accessory options ranging from ties to lapel pins and pocket squares. Come October, travelers will also get a chance to join fitness brand Iron & Oar for specialized rowing classes, a high intensity, low impact workout on property.
The property is home to two food and beverage venues: Boleo is a South American inspired restaurant and Steadfast, a seasonal venue from the Fifty/50 Group which occupies the ground floor. On its 4,000-square-foot rooftop, a massive open-air, retractable glass roof allows it to function as a great gathering space year-round. Among its other notable amenities is free use of bikes, a yoga mat in every room, pet-friendly options and children-friendly books that can be delivered to your room. Thankfully, The Gray also offers complimentary Wi-Fi, a trend we’re happy to see catch on among hotels. Rooms begin at around $200 a night.
