The Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte revamped its guest rooms, melding modern elegance, luxury and touches of the Tar Heel state, particularly the Queen City.
That multimillion-dollar project renovated all 146 rooms at the hotel — its first revamp since opening in 2009.
“It was time,” says Jon Farace, general manager. “The hotel is very contemporary and the goal was to deliver that feeling.”
Guests will find an elevated Honor Bar, custom carpets from American designer Alexander Julian — who’s garnered national acclaim, including being featured in the Smithsonian National Design Museum — and other upgrades in their rooms, from new beds and bedding to flat-screen TVs and televisions in the bathroom mirrors.
“People are looking for the luxury experience,” Farace says.
Julian, designer of the original Charlotte Hornets uniform, created a flooring that draws from the city's roots, with touches of teal, purple, green, aqua and gold. (Think Hornets, old money, the Carolina Panthers and the gold rush.)
It is featured in the guest rooms as well as the hallways. He drew inspiration from his multicolored herringbone tie, which debuted in 1976, for the pattern.
“For all of my home furnishings, I’ve always used fashion as a test run,” Julian says. “It’s something that has proven to work.”
That design can also be found in other areas of the hotel, from lobby chairs to ties and pocket squares worn by employees.
“It really speaks to Charlotte,” Farace says.
The Honor Bar incorporates touches of the city and North Carolina, too.
It does so by featuring local whiskey Rua, made by Great Wagon Road Distilling. The Ritz-Carlton purchased two specific barrels that are used for its bottles. Extras include Bruce Julian’s Bloody Mary Mix, snacks from across the state such as Griff’s Coffee Toffee, Chad’s Carolina Corn, and salt and apple-cider vinegar chips from The Chip Co. in Asheville.
“We really wanted to give it a local touch. You feel like you’re experiencing Charlotte — not just The Ritz-Carlton,” says Jessica Swannie, communications manager.
The 2,900-square-foot presidential suite also got a revamp.
That space has been designed to accommodate the affluent traveler — costing $4,500 a night — and incorporated a fitness center, complete with Peloton bike, office space and large living area with a wine fridge and honor bar.