The Radisson Blu brand has arrived in the U.S. and landed in downtown Chicago in the Aqua Tower, an 18 story building designed by environmentally conscious architect, Jeanne Gang, of Studio Gang Architects. The building was designed with a lot of open space that is immediately noticeable in the public areas and the high ceilings give a sense of spaciousness. Floor to ceiling windows overlooking the street at reception provide a dreamy urban backdrop to your streamlined check-in as you are whisked through the process with fast and attentive service. Chocolate brown sofas and slipper chairs contrast with dazzling gold-plated walls in the lobby, a sparkling interior that entices visitors and pairs well with the rich blue-lit exterior.
Open the door to your room and you’ll see one of two design templates, the first entitled “Mansion House” or the second, “Naturally Cool”. In the former, notice the deep timber finishes that create sophisticated, strong lines. Nope, you’re not at the club downstairs but that’s the idea. The latter, Naturally Cool, is as the name suggests, a more subtle, contemporary design. There’s a soft white bed, clean metal furniture, wood flooring, and small splashes of color throughout.
The hotel is truly “of the city”. It nods to Chicago, known for being the first city to embrace the skyscraper. This becomes evident in the tall openings from the street into the lobby lounge forming skyline silhouettes and the steel “flying” staircase to Filini, the hotel’s Italian restaurant and bar. The materials used in the design scheme, for instance concrete, birch, oak, steel, brass, Krion, Cadisch mesh screens and back-painted glass echo the city’s industrious and Modernist flavors.
Near the confluence of Lake Michigan and the Chicago River, the Radisson Blue Aqua Hotel is steps away from Chicago’s most beloved attractions, like Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and the Magnificent Mile and boasts prime views of both the lake and the city skyline. But with amenities like a green roof, recreation deck, movie screening room, and basketball court, why would you even want to leave the premises?
Radisson Blue Aqua Hotel Chicago
221 North Columbus Drive Chicago, IL 60601
(312) 565-5258
www.radissonblu.com/aquahotel-chicago