KTGY not only found inspiration in Chicago’s rich architectural history but in its inherent social progressiveness and geographic evolution as a masterfully interconnected urban marvel of waterways, buildings and green spaces. Notably, KTGY referenced the lakefront’s distinctive gardens and the city’s abundant parks—a respite for locals and tourists—which, at more than 8,800 acres, is one of the nation’s largest park developments.
Highlighting the extraordinary views of the Chicago River, Navy Pier and Lake Michigan from its dining room and singular bedroom, the Presidential Suite pairs neutral tones and organic shapes with high-impact metallic and stone details to create a sense of contemporary urban sophistication. Select niches were designed for lounging and displaying art—including Denver-based artist Derrick Velasquez, whose abstract painted sculptures utilize industrial materials to investigate the relationships between people and the built environment. Additional design features include a free-floating, four-poster bed, a generous walk-in closet, a private fitness room, a butler’s pantry and an impressive primary bath—featuring an oversized soaking tub and steam shower—providing visitors with the ultimate in contemporary luxury. The suite also offers the option to connect to an adjoining guestroom for additional space.
The KTGY SDDG design team weaved through the character of the curved exterior designed by legend Architect Jeanne Gang within the 10th Floor Iridium Spa interiors, featuring sumptuous fabrics, rough carved forms, bright metallics and onyx pedestals. Impressionistic brass inset wallcoverings, nature-inspired light fixtures and modern art installations offer a calming allure for guests, who can enjoy a glass of champagne in the Celebration Bar or unwind in front of the flowing, serpentine fireplace in the Relaxation Lounge. Tucked-away seating areas throughout the reception area, nail salon, changing rooms and private spa suite add to the feel of a luxurious, urban retreat.
In the double-height lobby, KTGY SDDG infused elements of light and shadow, reflecting Chicago’s post-fire grit and playing with interior grids, reimagining the steel skeletons of the city’s tallest buildings as modern design installations. Smoky marble floors and walls lead guests to the gilded, high-gloss front desk, where charred wood mantles are paired with a floating chandelier of linear metal rods and glass orbs. A decorative metal-grid structure became the framework for six sculptures by Brooklyn-based artist Jack Henry, which blend found objects, building materials and natural elements to highlight the give-and-take relationship of urban environments and nature, ever present in the Chicago landscape.
