W New Orleans – French Quarter reveals multi-million dollar renovation
W has unveiled a full-scale $9million renovation of its New Orleans French Quarter property as part of the brand’s plan to reinvigorate eleven of its hotels across the US.
“When W New Orleans – French Quarter opened more than 12 years ago, it created a new scene in our vibrant city,” said the hotel’s General Manager James Wroblewski. “The renovation is critical to enhancing the overall guest experience while also drawing in locals with a very personalized touch.”
New York interior design and architecture firm Nemaworkshop redesigned the hotel’s 97 guest rooms, including four bungalows, to reflect the artistic energy and influence of jazz and tarot in the Crescent City. The monochrome colour palate accented with vibrant tones was inspired by the liveliness of Big Easy music. Meanwhile the property’s tarot-designed rooms channel the mystic spirit of the city, with décor inspired by New Orleans’ voodoo queen Marie Laveau.
“The new design definitely has a little fun with the city’s spiritual side,” states Anurag Nema, Principal at Nemaworkshop. “You may see Marie’s eyes following you on the guest room number placard, or you may recognize her headdress on a directional sign. If you look up while you’re standing in the lift landing, you’ll notice tiny, pin-like lights, playing off voodoo pins.”
The redesign also includes the creation of SoBou – a Louisiana street food-inspired restaurant and lounge from the Commander’s Family of Restaurants. The space was designed around the consept of mixology, with the dining space being modeled on an apothecary with a one-way glass installation showcasing bottles multiplying into infinity. A modern beer garden houses self-service wine machines and tables featuring in-built beer taps.
The transformation of W New Orleans – French Quarter is part of a comprehensive renovation strategy to update the W brand’s North American portfolio, focusing on many of the its early hotels in key markets such as New York City, Seattle, Chicago, New Orleans, and Los Angeles.
