The subject of boutique hotels has been hotly debated for at least the past five years as consumer demand soars for this specialty lodging. When you ask someone what a boutique hotel is, most likely you will receive a different answer and opinion each time. Some may believe that a hotel just needs to be small, while to others, boutique hotels cater to a certain niche market, feature unexpected luxuries and offer a city center locale.
The word boutique means a small fashionable shop and has now been loosely translated to the hospitality industry. The term as applied to hotels can encompass several meanings, although most would agree that most of these hotels treat guests to an exceptional level of design, dcor, architecture or history complemented by extra conveniences and personalized touches. Across the United States, this trend has seen tremendous popularity and can be found in properties from distinctive theme hotels to accommodations with a storied history.
From Los Angeles and San Francisco to Washington D.C. and Chicago, boutique hotels have emerged as a major player on the lodging scene. Here are several unique options all considered boutique hotels in these world-class cities.
Los Angeles Boutique Hotel
Guests can immerse themselves in a Los Angeles boutique hotel with a unique theme. Kyoto Grand Hotel and Gardens in downtown Los Angeles pampers guests with Japanese-inspired accommodations complemented by extensive facilities and luxury services. Distinct Asian accents are found throughout the property, from a lush rooftop Japanese Garden to unique Japanese suites with tatami mats and futons. An on-site Japanese spa offers a haven of relaxation, specializing in Shiatsu fingertip massages. The Asian influences continue in several dining options with a sushi bar, tempura bar teppanyaki grill and a restaurant serving authentic Japanese cuisine.
San Francisco Boutique Hotel
A trendy San Francisco boutique hotel in Union Square, Hotel 480 offers an unrivaled locale in the heart of the Golden Gate City that boutique hotels are known for. Stylishly designed with modern decor, this hotel offers the convenience of pet-friendly accommodations and deluxe amenities. A highlight of this hotel is its position in world-famous Union Square. Leisure and business travelers have found a welcome retreat from the bustle of the city. Vacationer will find limitless shopping options, exclusive restaurants and renowned attractions nearby while corporate customers will appreciate simple access to the Financial District and Moscone Convention Center.
Washington D.C. Boutique Hotel
A landmark luxury Washington D.C. boutique hotel, Phoenix Park encompasses several features that define a boutique hotel. With a building whose history dates back to 1922, an enchanting Irish theme found throughout and an unsurpassed location just one block from Union Station and two blocks to the U.S. Capitol Building, this property is the epitome of a boutique hotel. Guests will find warm Irish hospitality and thoughtful accents like award-winning Galanta Irish in-room amenities, and elegant suites with luxurious Irish linens, fine toiletries, custom-designed carpets and chandeliers from Ireland’s most noted companies. Authentic Irish cuisine is featured at the on-site restaurant, The Dubliner Restaurant and Pub, where in-house brewed beers can be enjoyed. This boutique hotel in Washington D.C. has long been a top choice for leisure and business travelers alike, with its coveted location near famous attractions and government buildings.
Chicago Boutique Hotel
The Silversmith Hotel in downtown Chicago embodies numerous aspects of a boutique hotel. Designed in the late 1800s by a member of the renowned architectural firm of D.H. Burnham and Company in the Arts and Crafts style, this historic hotel in Chicagos Jewelers Row is rich in class and elegance. Along with a storied history, this downtown Chicago hotel offers a prime location for both fun seekers and corporate clients. The Silversmith is situated just half a mile from the trains at Union Station, blocks from the Financial and Theatre Districts and minutes from the Magnificent Mile and Chicagos famous parks.
Conclusion:
Although these properties are extremely diverse in style, location and features, all are considered boutique hotels in their own right, reinforcing the notion that the term boutique hotel will continue to have countless definitions and the only constant is its mysterious nature and its continuing exponential growth among modern travelers.