Autograph Collection Hotels, part of Marriott International, revealed The Blackstone hotel in Chicago will join the brand’s portfolio of more than 100 independent hotels on June 7, 2017.
“The Blackstone has found its home as part of Autograph Collection Hotels given its rich history, exceptional design and iconic reputation,” Julius Robinson, VP and global brand lead, Autograph Collection Hotels, said in a statement. “Our one-of-a-kind hotels are known for providing differentiated, standout guest experiences, and we are thrilled to welcome global travelers and Chicago locals alike to this latest addition to our dynamic portfolio.”
Following the hotel’s large scale architectural restoration of $139 million in 2008, this multimillion-dollar renovation led by Chicago-based firm The Gettys Group refreshes the original work of Chicago architectural firm Marshall and Fox, highlighting the early twenty-first century craftsmanship of the structure while incorporating modern technology and amenities. A Chicago landmark on the city’s Cultural Mile along Michigan Avenue, the hotel’s refreshed interior design carries through to the hotel’s 335 guestrooms and suites, which have marble accents, plush bedding and updated textiles. Upgraded accommodations up the ante with unobstructed views of Grant Park and Lake Michigan spanning from Navy Pier to Soldier Field.
“The Blackstone has long been the cornerstone of hospitality in Chicago,” Kim Corrigan, GM of The Blackstone, said in a statement. “The opportunity to join Autograph Collection Hotels amplifies this same distinctly hospitable and cultural spirit coupled with the unique design elements of our architecturally-stunning property.”
The Blackstone also contains curated art pieces by more than 1,600 local artists placed throughout the hotel, including in the Art Hall, guestrooms and public spaces, as well as woven throughout various guest touchpoints including the bespoke room keys, in-room amenities and more.
Known as the “Hotel of Presidents” for over 100 years, The Blackstone has hosted U.S. presidents and foreign dignitaries, scandalous political and mob exchanges, a star-studded array of actors, and more than a dozen movie productions. In 1920, The hotel became known for the Smoked Filled Suite following the Republican Party leaders’ secret meeting to nominate Warren G. Harding as their candidate for president. Additionally, the hotel’s Suite of Presidents saw the likes of President Dwight Eisenhower watching his nomination for president from the room in 1952, and President John F. Kennedy preparing for D.C. negotiations on the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962. In turn, The Blackstone also became known as the location of Chicago gangster Al Capone’s barbershop, located below street level in a “barbershop” lounge that still remains today.
The hotel honors these tales through “Back in the Day” Turn Down & Other Stories available in each room.
The Blackstone Hotel’s culinary programming culminates at Mercat a la Planxa, the Mercat a la Planxa and Mercat Lower Lounge and Timothy’s Hutch, located in the hotel lobby.