What could be better than a downtown hotel named to honor feminist pioneer Jane Addams? A downtown hotel named to honor her that’s also woman-owned, but we’ll take what we can get, Chicago.
St. Jane Chicago is slated to open next spring at the site of the current Hard Rock Hotel, 230 N. Michigan Ave., the historic Carbide & Carbon building. The art deco skyscraper – with its green and gold tower – was reportedly built in 1929 to resemble a champagne bottle in response to Prohibition.
If you’re feeling nostalgic about the Hard Rock Hotel, you should probably book a stay there soon – the Chicago Tribune reports that its last day is Nov. 30.
The rebranding is being led by Chicago-based Aparium Hotel Group and venture capital firm Becker Ventures. Aparium was founded in 2011 by luxury hotel and hospitality veterans Kevin Robinson and Mario Tricoci. Troy, Mich.-based Becker Ventures was founded in 1998 by Charles Becker.
“Through our programming, we will celebrate and cater to the collective power of Chicago’s spirit and culture, making St. Jane the most authentic expression of our city for locals and visitors alike,” Robinson said in a release.
“Chicago deserves this beauty, and the Carbide & Carbon building deserves to be as impressive on the inside as much as it’s inspiring on the outside,” said Carrie Meghie, principal at Becker Ventures. “The hotel will also be a deeply-rooted member of Chicago’s philanthropic community through giving back, and supporting local causes through sales and the hosting of charity events and meaningful donations.”
Addams, the first American woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize, founded the Hull-House on Chicago’s West Side and is largely considered the “mother of social work.” To learn more about her history, you can visit the Jane Addams Hull-House Museum.
St. Jane Chicago details:
Rooms: 363
Premium suites: 33
Indoor/outdoor lounge: 24th floor
Meeting & event space: 11,000 square feet
www.stjanehotel.com
