26 May 2016
Starwood to debut Element Hotels brand in Detroit within revamped neo-gothic landmark
BY Kim Megson
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide has announced it will transform the landmark Metropolitan Building in Detroit into 110-bedroom Element Hotel.
Element Detroit at the Metropolitan Building will open in July 2018. It will be owned and developed by Metropolitan Hotel Partners; a joint venture between Detroit developers Means Group and Roxbury Group.
The 14-storey Metropolitan Building is a neo-gothic icon designed by local firm Weston and Ellington in 1925. Located in the city’s Entertainment District, it once housed a jewellery emporium for diamond cutters, goldsmiths and silver workers.
The Element adaptive re-use project will see the restoration of the hotel’s exterior and a top-to-bottom renovation of the interior. Components of the original building’s ornate lobby and mezzanine will also be preserved.
In addition to the hotel, the 100,000sq ft (9,300sq m) building will feature 7,000sq ft (650sq m) of retail on the ground floor and lower level, an outdoor patio on the 11th floor, a 24-hour fitness centre and an indoor swimming pool.
“We look forward to introducing Element to Detroit with this exciting adaptive re-use project that will retain the historic charm of the Metropolitan Building, while turning it into a sleek and stylish destination for travellers visiting the ‘Motor City,’” said Brian McGuinness, senior vice president of specialty select brands for Starwood.
Roxbury Group founder David Di Rita added: “The new Element will help meet demand for high-calibre extended stay lodging in downtown Detroit, as well as address the growing demand for business and leisure travel to downtown.
“With its historic appeal, smart design and diverse offerings, Element Detroit at the Metropolitan Building will serve an important role in the growth of the city and in our ongoing drive to preserve its architectural gems.”
Element is an eco-focused hotel brand which promotes natural light, modern design and green sensibilities. At least 17 new Element hotels are scheduled to open by the end of 2017, including in London, Tanzania and Hebei, China.
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