The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit Opens and Inspires Renewal in Fully Restored, Iconic Building
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The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit Opens and Inspires Renewal in Fully Restored, Iconic Building
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Category: North America & West Indies / Carribean islands
This is a press release selected by our editorial committee and published online for free on 2008-10-23
The 1924 Detroit Landmark Re-opens Following a Comprehensive $200 million Renovation
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE:HOT) today announces the grand opening of The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit, following a massive $200 million historic renovation by the Cleveland, Ohio-based developer, The Ferchill Group. The grand opening celebration, Book Cadillac: Next Chapter, is scheduled for October 25 and is expected to be attended by 1,000 guests including Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm, and Detroit Mayor Kenneth Cockrel, Jr. The Italian-renaissance-style hotel originally opened its doors in 1924 on what was called the "Fifth Avenue of the Midwest," earning distinction as the tallest hotel in the world. Now the revitalized hotel reclaims its position as Detroit's premier hotel and number one choice for sophisticated social events. The spectacular property features 453 elegant rooms and more than 60 branded residences, as well as 30,000 square feet of meeting and banquet space, and the Westin brand's full range of refreshing signature amenities and services.
Underscoring the hotel's highly anticipated return after 24 years, The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit has already booked more than 15,000 room nights, 25 weddings and numerous corporate and civic events. A member of the National Registry of Historic Places, the renowned hotel boasts a storied history as the site of numerous galas and host to celebrated guests including U.S. Presidents, top sports personalities and Hollywood stars. The hotel is ideally located at the center of downtown Detroit, close to numerous corporate headquarters, Fox Theatre, Ford Field and Joe Louis Arena.
"No one thought the Book would ever open again," said Ferchill Group Chairman and CEO John Ferchill, owner and developer of The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit. "We proved them wrong. I could not be happier at how this hotel looks and feels -- it's elegant, sophisticated and inviting, and has all the signature services and amenities that Westin hotels offer worldwide. This is a great asset for Detroit and the region. We believe that this hotel will be a major catalyst to bring more people to the city to live, work, play and invest in Detroit's future."
Highlights of the renovation include Italian crystal from Murano, Italy in the hotel's ballrooms, stately ionic columns and capitals, a fully restored original grand staircase, tall arched windows and architectural flourishes, complemented by custom-designed contemporary furnishings and decor. The hotel's three magnificent ballrooms include the Woodward Ballroom - the hotel's largest banquet space offering 7,766 square feet, the Venetian Ballroom and the more intimate Crystal Ballroom.
Unwind -- a Westin Evening Ritual(SM) is now held at the Westin Book Cadillac's impressive Motor Bar adjacent to the guest reception area on the hotel's second level. A Detroit tradition from the 50s through the 70s, the Motor Bar was frequented by local celebrities and other Detroiters at the end of the work day. The lofty 30 foot ceiling is embellished with Italian Renaissance details, while stately windows line the lounge area, creating an elegant and sophisticated atmosphere. The hotel's other signature services and amenities include The Westin Heavenly(R) Bed, Westin Heavenly(R) Bath, a 24-hour Westin WORKOUT(R) fitness center and Westin Service Express(R). Guests may also take advantage of the Westin Running Concierge service for fresh air exercise, a business center and gift shop.
Celebrity Iron Chef Michael Symon's new restaurant, Roast, opens to the public on October 26. Located on the street level, Roast is expected to reshape Detroit's restaurant scene. Open-pit roasting will be the focus of the menu, which will feature hearty steaks, chops and seafood selections. A 17-foot communal dining table takes center stage for single diners and other guests, while an impressive display of 1,000 bottles of wine towers over the bar. Symon, the recipient of many prestigious culinary awards, is known for his two award-winning restaurants in Cleveland: Lola and Lolita. He also appears on the "Iron Chef" series and is host of "Dinner: Impossible," both produced and televised by the Food Network. Roast will serve dinner only through the end of year and add lunch in January.
Breakfast and lunch is served in the hotel's Boulevard Room with a menu of fresh offerings featuring SuperFoods -- fruits, vegetables, grains, and proteins that are considered best for providing the most disease-fighting and health-enhancing benefits due to their high nutrients and antioxidants content. From blueberries to salmon, the menu offers healthy and appetizing choices. The WBC Gourmet Grab & Go, an upscale coffee house, will open October 31 and feature breakfast foods plus Panini sandwiches, fresh salads, soups and desserts. WBC is located on the hotel's street level with hotel and street access.
Spa19 24Grille will occupy the 8,000 square foot retail space located on the Michigan Avenue side of The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit. Spa19 will offer a complete rejuvenating day spa experience for hotel guests and visitors and two private dining areas, where guests can top off the spa experience with an exclusive spa menu by 24Grille. Facing Michigan Avenue with seasonal outdoor seating, 24Grille will promote a casual and comfortable atmosphere for lunchtime crowds, after work gatherings, and late-night fun. Spa19 24Grille is slated to open in late November and is owned and operated by Entourage Restaurant Group, a Detroit based hospitality company.
Offering dramatic views of Detroit's international waterfront and downtown area, the Westin branded residences are housed on the building's top nine floors. Of the more than 60 privately-owned condominiums priced between $360,000 and $1.2 million, 55 have already been sold. A Westin Residence Concierge is available daily and owners have the option of enjoying hotel amenities including the fitness center and indoor pool, housekeeping, catering and dry cleaning.
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