Chicago welcomes the opening of the Kinzie Hotel in February 2014. The urban exploration design scheme, inspired by Chicago’s rich history and landscape, is displayed throughout the upscale, boutique property.
Placed in the heart of Chicago’s bustling River North neighborhood, the design project – led by Gettys Design Group Chicago – sets to represent the city’s first settler and renowned explorer, John Kinzie. All elements, from branding to design, pay tribute to Kinzie’s historical role.
Vintage imagery of the 19th century Chicago maps and compasses are subtly displayed throughout guestroom wall coverings, paying tribute to the hotel’s exploratory namesake. The navigational branding also speaks to the hotel’s tagline, “Chicago Starts Here,” encouraging guests to explore the city as John Kinzie once did in the early 1800s.
“The Kinzie Hotel is a quintessential Chicago hotel,” Ben Nicholas, design director of the Chicago-based Gettys Group, said. “We are excited about the opening of this city-centric hotel – a place where guest can experience a little bit of Chicago with every turn.”
Kinzie Hotel offers three intimate, concierge-style guest check-in desks – a characteristic guest may not find at other hotels. In addition, visitors will find warm sofa niches along each wall of the lobby and common areas, inviting them to relax after their travels.
The urban exploration design scheme continues into three renovated meeting spaces. Here guests will find the Sauganash Room, named after Kinzie’s close friend and colleague, Billy Caldwell, also known as “Sauganash.” The other meeting rooms include the Dearborn Room and Wolf Point.
Business travelers will appreciate the amenities the Kinzie Hotel offers such as the latest audio visual capabilities, guestrooms with long, counter-height multipurpose desk units, and sound-proof rooms. In addition, the Double Cross Lounge provides guest with an inviting lounge space to mingle with other travelers or relax after meetings.
