French architect Jean-Paul Viguier designed this exciting addition to the Chicago skyline. Part of the Accor chain and sister property to the Sofitel in suburban Rosemont, this property is luxuriously different in design. I have not stayed in this property (yet), but I have taken a tour of many of its interiors. The name "Water Tower" is a bit misleading, as it is actually about four small blocks from the Water Tower landmark. However, you should have no trouble finding this hotel, as its distinctive asymmetrical glass exterior jumps out of the landscape. It looks like a giant triangular glass sculpture, not your typical look for a hotel.
The entrance is through the concave circular niche carved out of the building mass. The lobby area has a lot of razzle-dazzle to it, including a cool glass staircase. The center of the lobby has some cozy seating if you are waiting for someone. The lighting is strikingly set to play off the art objects in the public spaces. The Cafe des Architectes is a noted French bistro with al fresco seating in the summer. Even if you are not dining here, admire the bold interior design and monotone murals of Chicago landmarks. The bar off the main lobby has a library of art and architecture books if you do not want to mingle with the beautiful people.
The hotel has 32 floors and 415 rooms. Since this is a new building, the contemporary rooms are large in size and comfortably colorful in design. If you have money to burn, stay at one of the suites, with furniture that any architect would be proud of. There are excellent views of the city from all the guest rooms. If you are not fortunate enough to be staying here, try to blend in with the crowd and ride the elevators to a high floor and you can take a peek out the windows down one of the hallways.
The Sofitel has a fitness center, but no pool. But who wants to exercise when you are staying in a posh new hotel in an exciting Chicago neighborhood?