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n order to uphold Chicago’s reputation as one of the nation’s leading “green” cities, the boutique Hotel Felix, formerly known as apartment hotel, Hotel Wacker, is now giving a warm and eco-friendly welcome to guests.
Designed by Gettys, Hotel Felix conveniently opened during Earth Month, in April 2009.
With efficiencies and key design elements that lessen the environmental impact of a newly built property, the 225-room boutique hotel was redeveloped by the Oxford OBG Hospitality Investment Partners. Inspired by natural elements, Felix presents an upscale and intimate option that offers guests comfortable elegance.
Hotel Felix is the first downtown Chicago hotel designed to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) silver certification. The LEED-related features of the property include the in-room motion sensors that control heat and lighting, the installation of recycled products in artwork, fabrics, surfaces and wall coverings, and energy efficient plumbing.
But the green-ness of this hotel doesn’t stop there. Guests that arrive in a hybrid car receive complimentary valet parking, and there is a hotel-wide recycling program. Recycled materials, low-emitting paints, carpets, and a green cleaning program are used throughout as well.
Felix’s lounge furnishings are a palette of neutrals in natural textures, such as bronzes, golds, champagne and cream colors, accented by richly textured leather, chiseled white marble, and contemporary art. The full-service bar in the lobby provides intimacy with subdued lighting, embossed leather-pattern wall covering, warm red “Crooked Iron” stone and antique mirrors.
“We’ve consciously developed a hotel that will offer our guests a more healthy, environmentally-conscious property that also includes all the technology and high style expected by today’s discerning travelers,” said John Rutledge, managing partner for the Oxford OBG Hospitality Investment Partners and founder and CEO for Oxford Capital Group, LLC.