CHICAGO - Viceroy Hotel Group will introduce the latest addition to The Viceroy Icon Collection, Viceroy Chicago, in September 2017, marking the brand's first property in the Midwest. Found in the heart of the vibrant Gold Coast neighborhood, the 180-room hotel is located on the site of the former historic Cedar Hotel and will feature culinary concepts from Chicago's celebrated Boka Restaurant Group.
Positioned at the intersection of Cedar Street and State Street, Viceroy Chicago will rise 18-stories and is steps away from top Chicago attractions including Lake Michigan and the Magnificent Mile along with some of Chicago's favorite high-end shopping and boutiques on Oak Street. The hotel's guestrooms, as well as its rooftop pool and cocktail lounge, will feature sweeping views of Lake Michigan and the city's iconic skyline.
"Chicago is a dynamic and versatile city, attractive to travelers for its arts scene, sports teams, and desirable culinary destinations," said Tijs Klerx, General Manager of Viceroy Chicago. "Viceroy Chicago draws inspiration from all of these key cultural Chicago moments, and more, to provide travelers with a localized, yet upscale, stay experience."
Viceroy Hotel Group is working in collaboration with Chicago-based Convexity Properties along with award-winning hospitality design firm TAL Studio and leading architect Goettsch Partners. In homage to its history, Viceroy Chicago will showcase the Cedar Hotel's original brick and terracotta facade, first designed by architects Rissman and Hirschfield. Thoughtfully curated design, art, style and culture will be infused into the hotel to create an authentic and inspired experience, while also working to maintain a distinct sense of place for guests eager to explore the vivacious Chicago landscape.
Viceroy Chicago's design is inspired by the Flaneur, a French literary figure known for its free spirit and eye for exploration. Principal designer Todd Lenahan used this spirited character as a guide to create surprise and delight moments throughout the hotel, offering guests the opportunity for discovery. The hotel's public spaces will feature bold art fixtures, including a 30-foot teal poem wall towering over the lobby living room and inscribed with quotes from French poet Marcel Proust. Just beyond the living room, large bronze reception desks will welcome guests, positioned in front of a large painting depicting a Venetian carnival recital by South American cubist artist, Badi.
The celebratory hues of this painting will be seen throughout the hotel, appearing individually in the guestrooms and hallways to represent an artist's palette before colors are incorporated into a larger painting. The guestrooms will each feature a distinct headboard-wall that is a digital reproduction of an original work produced by London artist Tim Modus. The display is inspired by the architectural elements and sculptural forms of the mid-century, and will serve as a nod to Chicago's storied architectural history. Guestrooms will also host enlarged, luxurious bathrooms and closets, and a selection of suites will offer expansive terraces with incredible views of the cityscape and Lake Michigan.
Viceroy Chicago will also be home to the highly anticipated restaurant Somerset, helmed by James Beard Award finalist Lee Wolen of Chicago-based Boka Restaurant Group. The restaurant will be located on the ground floor of the hotel and will have a large landscaped and tree-lined patio. Wolen will create a menu of flavor forward and approachable dishes, highlighting the best in seasonal, local ingredients. Chef Wolen will also oversee the culinary offerings for the hotel's rooftop, as well in-room dining, catering and events.
The hotel will also host 5,000 square feet of meeting and event space, including the 2,200 square foot Cedar Ballroom and adjoining outdoor Terrace.
Viceroy Chicago guest amenities and services will include Natura Bisse and ROIL bath and salon products in luxurious bathroom settings, private bars with local and artisanal offerings, unique wellness programming, complimentary Wi-Fi access, 24-hour access to the fitness center featuring Technogym equipment and a panoramic view of Lake Michigan and the Gold Coast neighborhood.
