Virgin Hotel Launches in Chicago

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  • August 19, 2015

Ready to stay in a hotel that does not feel like a hotel? Where you feel like you are staying in an exclusive yet creative space. Leave it to Sir Richard Branson to launch Virgin’s first US based hotel in Chicago. And he thought of everything!

The Chicago property, located just off Michigan Avenue in the business district, has a history of it’s own having once been the Old Dearborn bank building. In fact, throughout the hotel you will see hints of what the building’s previous business was just adding to the hotel’s ambience.

Inspiring Kitchen Virgin Hotel

From a business traveler’s perspective, it’s all in the details of how the hotel is run. Walk into what you would expect to be a lobby but instead find a small former cigar bar now operating as a well-run reception desk. Two smiling Virgin associates hand you your key (because you had already checked in via the Virgin app) or assist you in accessing your profile for easy check in. The first hint of many high tech details found in this hotel.

Take the brass elevators, (tribute to that bank), up to your chamber – what Virgin calls your room and discover that there is a door that separates the bedroom from the entry and bathroom giving you that added privacy should room service be called. Nice.

Inspiring Kitchen Virgin Hotel

As you look around the first portion of your chamber, you take note of a clearly different room design from your typical hotel room. Branson’s philosophy was to design a hotel that exceeded the expectations of women travelers. What was his motivation? Female business travelers are now accounting for 50% of hotel guests. Therefore, if a hotel room’s accommodations pleased women, he knew men would also approve. The details are extraordinary. Walk in to the hotel chamber and you notice a large, well-lit vanity that is arranged to offer the comforts of home. Think of it as your personal dressing room. No need to hover over the sink to put your make up on. Add to this perk, a large two-person shower with rainfall showerhead and bench and relaxation is kicking in.

Inspiring Kitchen Virgin Hotel Enter the bedroom portion of the space, and you see a bed that just welcomes you. In fact, they may just become known for these beds. You will notice a lounge aspect to the design of the bed accommodating the need to work from your hotel room.

Want a snack but don’t want to pay a fortune at the mini-bar? No problem as the provided treats are sold at the neighborhood store’s pricing. Yes, that is correct. No $10 candy bar here. Speaking of amenities, you will find no fees being charged for wireless usage, movie downloads or room service either. Using Virgin’s app, you can even order room service to be ready for you when you arrive at the hotel. All about service.

The Commons Club is a space designed for work and play. Open to hotel guests and the public. Business meetings (outlets line the underside of the bar) and a relaxing cocktail.

virgin commons club 3 pics picm

The design of the area is all about comfort, humor and a good time.

Inspiring Kitchen Virgin Hotel

Looking for a bite to eat? How about trying Miss Ricky’s classic American diner. This is your hotel restaurant with flair.

Inspiring Kitchen Virgin Hotel Just want a cup of coffee and a pastry while you get some work done? Check out the hotels Two Zero Three coffee and wine bar.

Inspiring Kitchen Virgin Hotel

Ready for an evening cocktail where you can see the beautiful Chicago architecture? Come to the Rooftop bar.

Inspiring Kitchen Virgin Hotel

Hitting the gym is easy:

Inspiring Kitchen Virgin Hotel

Whether you are coming to Chicago for business or pleasure, the new Virgin Hotel is definitely worth a stop. The design and amenities are intriguing and just what Sir Richard wants you to experience.  New hotels are expected in Nashville and NY in the near future. 

For more information, please visit Virgin Hotels, Chicago

 

Thanks for stopping by!

 

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