Uniquely Hospitable

Going on a vacation this summer? Whether it’s a cross-country road trip, city visit, or international getaway, you might just find yourself staying at one of the many unique hotels engineered by IMEG.

The following list provides a sample of hospitality locations for which IMEG provided various combinations of design and services – working with the architects to ensure safe and comfortable experiences for guests, and energy efficiency for the owners. Even if you’re not staying at these locations, they’re all worth exploring if you happen to be in the neighborhood.

Chicago Athletic Association, Chicago: Formerly one of the nation’s most endangered historic places, this 1893 exclusive men’s club was restored to its former glory and updated with a modern twist. The Chicago Athletic Association kept its classy Venetian Gothic style when it was renovated in 2015 and transformed into an ornate 4-star boutique hotel with modern amenities including a fitness center, game room, several unique bars and five dining spaces – including Cindy’s, located within a vaulted glass and steel rooftop atrium overlooking Michigan Avenue and Millennium Park.

Freehand Hotel, Chicago: For a more laid-back, go-with-the-flow Chicago stay, experience the unique blend of the boutique hostel that is the Freehand Hotel near the Magnificent Mile. With two-bedroom penthouses, four-bed shared spaces and traditional private rooms, there’s a place for everyone in this trendy 3-star hotel. The restaurant, bar, and guest kitchen – which is open 24/7 and includes a stove, oven, fridge, and microwave – provide a variety of options for all guests. You can also stop in for live music, cocktail-making classes and craft workshops throughout the week.

Graduate Hotel, Athens, GA: Historic southern charm draws guests and performers to this Graduate Hotel located in a former blacksmith foundry near the University of Georgia. The 3-star hotel offers a variety of concerts and events in multiple venues and has a spa, restaurant and coffee shop.

Graduate Hotel, Lincoln, NE: This hotel near the University of Nebraska-Lincoln boasts eclectic-style game room suites stocked with a game table, retro video games and even a vintage standing arcade game. The 3-star hotel has 231 rooms and is pet friendly.

Hard Rock Hotel, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic: Night-life and adventure-seekers can experience both relaxation and beach party vibes at this 5-star Hard Rock Hotel. The all-inclusive, family-friendly resort boasts 1,775 rooms, nine restaurants, 23 bars and lounges, 13 pools, and one of the largest casinos in the Dominican Republic. Other amenities include a golf course, tennis courts, spa, and occasional concerts, including an Oct. 18 performance by Shakira.

Historic Park Inn, Mason City, IA: The last remaining hotel designed by famed architect and interior designer Frank Lloyd Wright, the 101-year-old inn and bank building was saved from imminent demolition and restored based on Wright’s original drawings. The 3-star hotel reopened in 2011 following a 12-year renovation and features 27 guestrooms – each one unique, including the originally restored 1910 historic suite – a restaurant, wine room, lounge, fitness center, and ladies parlor.

Ironworks Hotel, Indianapolis: This 120-room, luxury boutique hotel – the first to open on the north side of Indianapolis – is distinguished by an industrial aesthetic that includes exposed piping and reclaimed barn wood. The decor, lighting fixtures and vintage feel create a unique experience for guests while providing the amenities of a 3-star hotel, including a spa, restaurants and fitness center.

Sheraton Grand Los Angeles at The Bloc, Los Angeles: The Sheraton Los Angeles hotel was upgraded to its premier status as a Grand Hotel after being completely renovated. The metallic, sparkling decor of this 496-room, 3-star hotel shines inside LA’s newest mixed-use shopping, entertainment and dining development. Its luxurious amenities and services include a new lobby bar and coffee shop, rooftop deck, private club lounge, restaurant and cutting-edge technology. Its location puts guests steps away from the Staples Center, L.A. Live, shopping venues and other attractions.

Soaring Eagle Waterpark and Hotel, Mt. Pleasant, MI: The whole family can enjoy a stay at this waterpark and 3-star hotel. Kids can spend all day at the waterpark, catching a wave in the surf simulator, floating through the lazy river, trying out the three-story water slide or climbing the rock wall. Meanwhile, parents can enjoy the hot tubs, sauna and steam room, courtyard and golf course.

Talking Stick Resort, Scottsdale, AZ: This 4-star resort near Phoenix features nine entertainment venues – including a pool-side concert stage. Other amenities include a spa, casino, six restaurants, 11 bars, 24-hour fitness room and golf course. Visitors also can learn about Native American art in the cultural center, and get a haircut in the barber shop before taking in an evening show.

The St. Anthony Hotel, San Antonio, TX: Modern luxury mixes with 20th century opulence in this 4-star hotel near the Alamo. A recent historic renovation preserved many of the hotel’s public spaces (including the ballroom and lobby), keeping them as close to the original design as possible. Features include a rooftop bar, restaurant, and outdoor heated pool with private cabanas and cabana bar.