GRAND RAPIDS, MI—The Amway Grand Plaza Hotel joined Historic Hotels of America, a program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
The Amway Grand Plaza is one of more than 240 hotels and resorts throughout the country that is recognized by Historic Hotels of America for preserving and maintaining its historic integrity, architecture and ambiance.
To be selected for membership, a hotel must be at least 50 years old, listed in or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places or recognized locally as having historic significance.
The Amway Grand Plaza Hotel originally opened as The Pantlind, with the cornerstone placed in 1913. The hotel officially opened in January 1916.Designed by Warren & Wetmore, the hotel’s details include one of the world’s largest gold-leaf ceilings in the Pantlind lobby.
The Amway Corp. acquired the historic Pantlind Hotel and refurbished the original building, opening the 682-room Amway Grand Plaza in 1981, combining the heritage of The Pantlind Hotel with the modern amenities of the 29-story glass tower addition to the original hotel.
Thierry Roch, executive director of Historic Hotels of America, said, “The Amway Grand has a interesting historical background, and with such a significant number of guestrooms and amenities, we are delighted to welcome them.”
Chad LeRoux, executive corporate director of marketing of parent Amway Hotel Corp., said, “The Amway Grand Plaza features a rich history, architectural grandeur and a welcoming ambiance that closely aligns with the values of the organization.”