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So Small, So Luxurious, So Green: Chicago’s New Ivy Hotel Aims High

Go To The Hotel's Web Site Where: 233 E. Ontario [map], Chicago, IL, United States, 60611
February 23, 2012 at 5:33 PM | by | Comments (0)

The rumor is true: a new boutique hotel is indeed opening this Spring in Chicago, whose burgeoning new hotel scene is really starting to gather some serious momentum.

Just over a block from Michigan Avenue in Chicago’s Near North neighborhood, the new Ivy Hotel has staked its claim on a 15-story, vacant office building set to open in April as the only true boutique luxury hotel in the city.

“There is no one else in the city who will be so small and so luxurious,” said the hotel’s Managing Director and family rep, James Cazares. A big claim, but we're ready to play along; especially the way they’re selling it. Picture a modern high-rise spanning 15 stories with only five rooms per floor—the majority of which will be suites (52 out of 63, to be exact)—plus espresso machines, mirror TVs, and sea salt soaking tubs.

As far as Cazares is concerned, the property’s ultimate luxury will be defined by its personal service. When guests arrive, they will be greeted, checked in by iPad and personally escorted to their rooms. Entire floors can be reserved at a premium and will offer security capable of blocking access to one or more floors. Guests can also roll in Lexus RX 400 SUV hybirds as they enjoy complimentary drop off service to most downtown locations. There’s even talk of scoring Garrett’s popcorn to nosh right on site.

Equally intent on minimizing its carbon footprint, The Ivy plans to make good with LED lighting, an energy-efficient heating system, and an empty bottle AND bath product recycling program. Bamboo flooring, recycled wall coverings, 100% organic and fair-trade towels and linens, and even rugs made from thistle will decorate every room.

This kind of luxury and green sassiness won’t come cheap. An upscale property catering to those who might stay at The James or Hard Rock but crave (and are willing to pay for) the luxurious service seen at Trump or the newly-named Waldorf-Astoria, The Ivy will open with rates starting at $225 for standard rooms and $350-525 for suites.

BTW, Mr. Cazares, you had us at five rooms per floor.

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