Le Meridien New Orleans to open in 2014 following extensive $29m. renovation to reposition the hotel, currently operated under Starwood's W brand.
NEW YORK – Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. announced plans to debut Le Meridien in New Orleans amidst rising demand for the Paris-born brand in markets across North America. Le Meridien New Orleans, ideally situated within walking distance from the city’s world-famous French Quarter, is set to open in Fall 2014. The hotel, which currently operates under Starwood’s W brand, was recently sold by the company to Chesapeake Lodging Trust for $65 million this past April. Chesapeake will begin the comprehensive $29 million renovation and conversion in April 2014 and complete the project by the end of the fourth quarter.
“We are proud to debut the Le Meridien brand in the culturally rich city of New Orleans,” said Brian Povinelli, Global Brand Leader, Le Meridien and Westin Hotels. “With a bullish pipeline and re-developed brand strategy, Le Meridien continues on a remarkable growth trajectory, connecting with guests through the arts, culture, and cuisine in key cities around the world.”
Le Meridien New Orleans will offer 410 fully renovated guestrooms and bathrooms as well as upgraded fitness center, rooftop pool and more than 10,000 square feet of state-of-the-art meeting facilities, ideal for weddings and business functions. The hotel’s restaurant and lounge, along with all other public areas, will also be transformed to implement Le Meridien brand elements and signature offerings.
“With strong brand appeal among cosmopolitan travelers worldwide, Le Meridien continues its aggressive deal signing momentum with Le Meridien New Orleans,” said Allison Reid, Senior Vice President of North America Development, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. “We have a great partner in Chesapeake Lodging, and look forward to working together to bring Le Meridien to the Crescent City.”
Le Meridien New Orleans will also feature the Le Meridien Hub experience, which re-interprets the traditional lobby into a social gathering place for creative people to converse, debate, and exchange. Le Meridien Hub offers both guests and locals a creative atmosphere where contemporary, curated artwork sets the environment. Le Meridien Hub further builds on the brand’s award-winning curated arrival experience and coffee culture. Le Meridien arrival consists of four elements: large-scale artwork in high impact areas to reset the mind and stimulate dialogue and curiosity; the sensory experience, illustrated through Le Meridien signature scent, sound and use of light, creating a unique and distinctive atmosphere; UNLOCK ARTTM programme, featuring LM100TM artist designed key card collections that not only offer access to the guestroom but also to Le Meridien affiliated contemporary cultural centers in the city; and a 24-hour curated soundtrack.
Located at 333 Poydras Street, Le Meridien New Orleans will be conveniently located near the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center and just a few blocks from the boutiques, art galleries and jazz clubs in the French Quarter as well as the Riverwalk Marketplace, Harrah’s Casino and the Warehouse District. The hotel is Chesapeake Lodging Trust’s fifth Starwood property, joining W New Orleans – French Quarter, W Chicago – City Center, W Chicago – Lakeshore and Le Meridien San Francisco.
Photo caption: New Orleans.
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