STAMFORD, CT—Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has launched its Aloft brand in Detroit, following the completion of an adaptive re-use project that has transformed the historic David Whitney Building.
Located at 1 Park Ave., Aloft Detroit at The David Whitney features 136 loft-like rooms and is owned and developed by Whitey Partners, LLC, a joint venture between The Roxbury Group and VOS Hospitality, the lifestyle/boutique division of Trans Inns Management, Inc.
“We are thrilled to open Aloft in the iconic David Whitney Building as part of Detroit’s ongoing downtown renaissance and expect that the hotel will appeal to next generation travelers and area professionals with its distinctive design aesthetic and live music offerings,” said Brian McGuinness, SVP, Specialty Select Brands for Starwood. “On track to open its 100th hotel next year, Aloft is enjoying phenomenal success due to accelerating demand in markets worldwide.”
Listed on the National Historic Register, the David Whitney Building was built in 1915 to anchor the northern end of the Grand Circus Park shopping district. The adaptive re-use project restored the decorative exterior elements that were removed in 1959, as well as the four-story lobby with glass atrium, while thoroughly renovating all floors of the building. Aloft Detroit at The David Whitney is walking distance to Comerica Park, the Arts & Entertainment District and Detroit Opera House, and convenient to Ford Field, Fox Theatre, Joe Louis Arena, several casinos, and the headquarters of General Motors, Ford Motor Company and other major companies.
“This project marks another important step forward for Detroit by restoring the grandeur of the David Whitney Building, while simultaneously introducing one of Starwood’s most innovative brands to the city’s downtown,” said Daniel Vosotas, CEO of Trans Inns. “The new Aloft hotel presents an exciting option for travelers in pursuit of stylish, high-caliber lodging.”
Amenities at Aloft Detroit at The David Whitney include the brand’s signature W XYZ bar with live music performances by emerging artists, a 24-hour fitness center and 6,670 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space. The hotel’s guestrooms feature the signature Aloft bed, Bliss bath amenities, a 42-inch LCD television and a plug & play station for electronics.