NATIONAL REPORT—Pod Hotels has brought its micro-hotel concept to Brooklyn, NY; The Porter is setting up shop in Portland, OR; and a Hilton dual-brand has opened in Tempe, AZ:
Pod Brooklyn
In New York, Pod Brooklyn has opened its doors in the heart of Brooklyn’s Williamsburg neighborhood, introducing the next generation of properties from BD Hotels in partnership with CB Developers.
In terms of accommodations, there are 249 modular rooms, each about 100 sq. ft., which include queen and bunk bed configurations with features like built-in storage and high-tech amenities, which allow guests to stream their own media content from iPhones or other devices.
Designed by Garrison Architects in collaboration with Pod Hotel design director, Vanessa Guilford, the property weaves Pod rooms with numerous courtyards, rooftops and private event spaces with connecting glass hallways, for guests seeking a wallet-friendly, interactive experience that encourages discovery, according to the brand.
The Porter
Located in central downtown Portland, OR, The Porter is set to open in early 2018. The luxury hotel will have 297 rooms, four premier dining options, an expansive library, indoor pool with Jacuzzi, a meditation spa and a fitness center.
Guestrooms will have a 50-in. Samsung HDTV, as well as Waldorf Astoria Beds with Frette bath linens, overscaled Calico walnut headboards with leather, solar shades for light control, Pendleton Plaid bed throws, locally inspired in-room coffee programs and artwork with an eclectic mix of images, maps and abstract works that tell Portland’s story.
With chef AJ Voytko at the helm, dining options will include Terrane Italian Bar + Grill, a soulful Italian-inspired restaurant; Xport bar & lounge, which features small plates and crafted cocktails; Chiosco Neapolitan Pizza Window, serving gourmet pizza; and Portland Exchange Grocer & Goods, providing an emphasis on cured meats, paninis, calzones, crafted gourmet coffee, pastries, gelatos, and more.
Hilton Dual-Brand
A dual-branded Hilton Garden Inn Phoenix-Tempe ASU Research Park and Home2 Suites by Hilton Phoenix-Tempe ASU Research Park has opened in Tempe, AZ, bringing a total of 228 new rooms to the Arizona State University area.
Developed and owned by RB-WW Tempe LLC and managed by Widewaters Tempe Hotel Management Company LLC, the dual-brand property is located at 7200 S. Price Rd. off Loop 101. It is across the street from the 320-acre ASU Research Park, which hosts headquarters for GoDaddy.com and Shutterfly.
The dual-brand concept creates enhanced and larger communal areas. There are two distinct lobbies and shared access to an outdoor pool, fire pit and grill area, as well as fitness center.