Hotel in Minneapolis Receives Coveted Recognition for an Exceptional Renovation

MINNEAPOLIS, MN--(Marketwired - Apr 29, 2014) - As anyone who's ever watched reality television knows, renovations can be powerful things. When a room or home goes from being a boxed-in, humdrum affair to a space that works in tandem with how people live, you can actually feel the difference. But when a hotel, once described as a "concrete fortress" near the Minneapolis Convention Center, becomes a light, bright and vibrant new Courtyard Minneapolis Downtown, the transformation doesn't just turn heads. It wins awards.

Formerly known as the Holiday Inn Metrodome, the property was purchased by Heartland Realty Investors before undergoing a $17-million renovation between January and August 2013. The result is a completely overhauled property that exemplifies what's possible among hotels in downtown Minneapolis and, as such, is a worthy recipient of the coveted Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal's Best Interior Renovation Award.

For the past 15 years, the publication has annually cultivated a group of industry experts to help review and honor the best deals, developments and real estate professionals in the Twin Cities. This panel uses its expertise to identify the most complicated and/or impressive projects and award them accordingly.

In the case of the Courtyard, the verdict was a no-brainer. "I knew early in the renovation we had something very special in our midst," said General Manager Phil Johnson. "Our upgraded features and unique custom decor was deliberately designed to meet the needs of today's travelers."

Guest rooms went from staid to stylish with a palette of soothing grays and wood tones that serve as the perfect backdrop to amenities like 37-inch HDTVs, spacious desks and plush bedding. The lobby is another high point. Embracing Marriott's signature Greatroom concept, the space features flexible seating and workspaces as well as access to The Bistro, whose upbeat, locally-informed environs open onto the lobby for a spaciousness that is both refreshing and practical. Now guests can customize their experience of the space, whether it's to relax over drinks with friends, or grab a bite to eat while catching up on email.

Business travelers will especially appreciate the upgraded Minneapolis meeting space now available at the property. Five expansive meeting rooms -- including a 5,200-square-foot ballroom -- welcome groups with state-of-the-art technology, tempting cuisine and an aesthetic that is as inspired as that of the rest of the property.

For travelers exploring options among hotels near the University of Minnesota, Target Field and Guthrie Theater, the verdict is loud and clear. Only one hotel has the style and substance that is born of a skilled renovation. And it has the award to prove it.

About the Courtyard Minneapolis Downtown
Chic and comfortable, the Courtyard Minneapolis Downtown welcomes today's travelers with the features they desire. An engaging lobby outfitted with the latest technology sets the pace for the rest of the property, which includes a fitness center, indoor pool and 8,200 square feet of stunning event space. The Bistro serves healthy American fare for breakfast and dinner, in addition to Starbucks coffee in the morning and a selection of cocktails, premium beers and wine in the evening. And ensuring that its guests are well-rested and refreshed are the hotel's 243 guest rooms and 22 suites. Visitors will find these spacious accommodations are outfitted with well-equipped workspaces, ergonomic chairs, upgraded bath amenities, complimentary Wi-Fi, luxury bedding and 37-inch HDTVs. And when it's time to explore the surrounding area, the hotel comes through for its guests once again, thanks to its close proximity to attractions like St. Anthony Falls, sporting arenas, concert venues and even the MSP International Airport.