Millennium Knickerbocker Chicago Completes Restoration

The Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel in Chicago has unveiled its US$27 million post-restoration splendour to the public after ten months of renovation works. All 305 of its guest rooms, including one-bedroom suites and guest corridors were transformed to reflect a new look which marries contemporary style with the hotel’s opulent past.

“We are both proud and happy that the Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel has managed to regain its 1920s opulence and characteristic décor fitting of its rich historic heritage. We had wished to retain the uniqueness of the hotel and ensure our guests can enjoy quality service within luxurious and impeccable surroundings,” said Anthony Kinnear, General Manager and Senior Vice President of the Millennium Hotels and Resorts, USA.

Located in the upscale Magnificent Mile in Chicago, Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel is a landmark property gazetted by the US Government to be preserved as a historic monument. It is part of the Historic Hotels of America programme of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

The restoration features a collection of design elements and amenities that enhance a guest’s stay. Soothing neutral colours accented with a splash of cranberry are complemented by walls finished with linen-like wall coverings, dark mahogany Sapele wood accents, chic Lucite bedside lamps and rich upholstery. Sealy pillow top bedding with 400-count Frette linens, down comforters and plush pillows offer the ultimate in comfort for a restful night’s sleep.

The bathrooms feature a Grohe rain shower system, granite countertops, and an environmentally-conscious water management system that is just one element of the hotel’s eco-friendly initiatives. Other initiatives include energy-efficient lighting, water flow control in baths and linen recycling programs. The hotel additionally uses revamped hotel cleaning processes to eliminate the use of aerosols and introduce eco-friendly cleaning chemicals.

The entire restoration design work was undertaken by renowned interior designer Jinnie Kim from Boston-based Jinnie Kim Design.

In addition to its rich 1920s design, the Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel also had an equally colourful record of famous guests and luminaries who stayed there during its 82 year history. Hugh Hefner, the founder of Playboy Enterprises, was one of the previous owners of the hotel and opened his original Playboy Club in 1960 next to the hotel to house both his guests and his Playboy bunnies. Former US Presidents such as Richard Nixon and John F Kennedy, rock stars like The Rolling Stones and boxing great Muhammad Ali all stayed at the hotel. Legend has it that Ralph Capone (brother of Al) also lived at the hotel.

See recent travel news from: Travel News Asia, Millennium, Chicago