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With a light and airy design channelling warmth and midwestern hospitality, the hotel welcomes guests to the ‘Wacker Drive Living Room’—a bright, urban living environment at the cross-section of the Chicago River and the famed Michigan Avenue.

The Royal Sonesta Chicago Downtown and The Gettys Group approached the project in a layered fashion, developing a style that highlights Chicago’s diverse culture and is not overly feminine or masculine. The reflection of the bustling city and calming river against the hotel’s glass-clad exterior inspired the hotel’s interior transformation. Cool tones of blue and green can be found throughout in addition to pops of yellow and orange, reminiscent of the glittering towers outside.

The use of subtle architectural details and playful artwork are intended to simultaneously make a guest feel at home, while invigorating them to step outside into the heart of the city. For example, the architectural arch details found in the lobby soften the robust, original columns, while paying homage to the classical structures throughout the Loop and Chicago’s beloved “corn cob” towers, visible through the front windows. Additionally, the reception pods were inspired by the design motif found on some of Chicago’s bridges, reinterpreted to connect the traveller to today’s modern world. The team also worked with Kevin Barry Art Advisory to incorporate thoughtful pieces into the design, including the dramatic custom piece in the lobby featuring rolled paper in shades of blue and green reflecting those found in the river.