Chicago's House of Blues Hotel is singing a new tune following a $17-million renovation project and reconcepting to the updated, luxury Hotel Sax Chicago. Managed by Gemstone Hotels & Resorts International, the property is located in the hub of the Marina City area just north of the Chicago River and the downtown loop. Gemstone aims to renew the contemporary appeal of the space and transform Hotel Sax Chicago into one of Chicago's most luxurious hotels.

McCartan Design Firm was retained to refresh and refurbish guestrooms and public spaces. The overhaul includes a complete renovation of all 353 guestrooms, hotel lobby area and bar. The team borrowed design influences from various eras, cultures and styles. The overall sensory affect combines the “theatrical, intoxicating and real,” says Mark van Hartesvelt, principal of Gemstone. “The guest experience at Hotel Sax Chicago is being built around this wonderful design vision for the space. With a unique perspective, we know this new hotel brand will carve out a strong niche within Chicago's luxury hotel market.”

Guestrooms evoke a bohemian vibe with ironwork screens, baroque patterns and a range of textures and styles. For example, a classic wingback chair is covered in snakeskin and a side table is made completely of mirrored panels.

The hotel also features an intimate and informal reception area, an exotic new lounge called Crimson and 10,000 square feet of meeting, ballroom and function space.