Virgin Hotels Chicago

Located at 203 N. Wabash in the Chicago Loop, this renovation of the landmark Old Dearborn Bank Building is a study in contrasts. In collaboration with the John Buck Company and an integrated team of interior designers, Booth Hansen acted as the architect of record for the restoration of the façade and a complete redesign of the interior, including 250 boutique rooms, multiple dining establishments and social spaces, and a rooftop bar. This is the first hotel by the Virgin Group in the United States.

The terra cotta façade, restored to historic standards, displays the ornate beauty of early 20^th century Chicago architecture. Inside, a highly activated interior captures the modern, four-star lifestyle representative of the Virgin brand. Spaces are accented with the company’s trademark red, creating continuity between multiple program types. The striking difference between exterior and interior underscores the challenges of renovation work today: in this project, Booth Hansen successfully balanced a respect for history with the client’s desire for technological advancement and cutting-edge amenities.

Hotel chambers accommodate the complete lifestyle of the today’s urban traveler, including separate sleeping and dressing areas and smart phone connectivity. More than a typical room, the chamber concept responds to a range of contemporary needs while maintaining a lively, youthful vibe.