Stonehill Taylor, a New York City-based architecture firm, and One Design Company, a Chicago-based brand development agency, will join Marcus Hotels & Resorts to transform the InterContinental Milwaukee hotel into an independent arts hotel.
Marcus announced in January it would redesign the 221-room hotel, located at 139 E. Kilbourn Ave. downtown, to celebrate local and international art, which including visual arts, music, theater, dance and literature.
The boutique style hotel, which will be redesigned by mid-2019, will feature art exhibits and programs, originally-crafted furniture and amenities, locally-sourced products, and studio space for hotel guests to create their own artwork. It will showcase artwork by local and international artists who are both well-known and up-and-coming.
“To our knowledge, this will be one of the only hotel concepts in the United States that truly incorporates all forms of art throughout the entire hotel,” said Gregory Marcus, president and chief executive officer of The Marcus Corp.
One Design Company and Stonehill Taylor will work with Marcus throughout the redesign process to incorporate Milwaukee’s art scene and cultural heritage into the new concept. They have already begun conducting research with Marcus on the city’s arts community by meeting with local artists, viewing exhibits and performances, and surveying local residents and visitors.
“We believe we’ve found partners who share our vision, are daring, yet not afraid of subtlety, and have the experience to design more than a hotel– a true destination with a reimagined place in our community,” Marcus said.
One Design Company will head the hotel’s brand development, including its name, logo and digital image, and Stonehill Taylor will mastermind the hotel’s new interior design.
“The chance to tap into creative talent and perspective from throughout the community, alongside the teams at Marcus Hotels and Stonehill Taylor, is astounding,” said David Sieren, design director and partner of One Design Company.
Sieren is a native of Milwaukee and said he has familial connections to the city’s art community and creative industry.
“This innovative hotel will celebrate the essence of Milwaukee’s thriving arts community, while incorporating curated pieces from well-known and up-and-coming artists alike,” said Michael Suomi, principal at Stonehill Taylor. “We are inspired by the team’s vision for this property and the impact it will have on its guests, associates and the community.”
Marcus Hotels & Resorts, a division of Milwaukee-based The Marcus Corp. purchased the hotel in 2006. The changes to the InterContinental come as several new, luxury hotels have been added to the downtown Milwaukee market in recent years, including the Westin, Kimpton Journeyman Hotel, Marriott and Iron Horse.
