From US$225, inclusive of breakfast and wifi
– SpringHill Suites' Art of Local program supports local artists and helps fund schools’ art programs
– The lobby is on the second floor; a quick elevator ride takes you to Reception
Marriott’s SpringHill Suites properties are going through a revitalisation. The already spacious rooms are being updated with chic furnishings from West Elm and the services and extras on offer make you feel more like you’re staying at a boutique property than at a chain.
My stay at their downtown Chicago location, just a couple blocks from Millennium Mile and the river lined with stunning architecture, marked a launch event for SpringHill Suites. The brand has been funding arts programs at low-income schools in the U.S. and Canada for several years. SpringHill has just launched the Art of Local program which will bring artists and their works into hotels throughout the U.S. and Canada too.
The offerings will differ from hotel to hotel, providing a boutique and local flavour to guests. At the kickoff party, we were treated to an eclectic mix of artists. Guests at SpringHill’s NYC properties may see and hear indie pop band MisterWives, who headlined the launch event. Austin and NYC guests might see the art of Jessie Bearden who creates portraits and text art using the colour and texture of everyday foods like fruits and sugar. The Food Artists Group, in SpringHill’s Virginia hotels, also creates edible art, pictured above. Miami guests may see artisan cigar roller Fernando Morales, and guests from several cities might come across screen printers Hit + Run, who make wearable art and tote bags, for example featuring designs specific to the cities they’re in.
Rooms at SpringHill Suites are spacious and, thanks to an ingenious convertible couch from West Elm, can sleep kids (or spouses who toss and turn) very comfortably. Breakfasts, included in rates, offer something for every taste, including a make-your-own waffle bar.
In Chicago, the rooms are decorated with gorgeous photos of the city’s iconic architecture, and the view out my window was of yet another gorgeous building. On the top floor there’s an exercise room, small pool and hot tub, all with floor to ceiling views out onto the city. Suite extras include guest laundry facilities, 24-7 coffee in the lobby, Paul Mitchell amenities, and sweets like Chuppa Chupps lollipops.
