Le Méridien Denver Downtown

When called on to spearhead the marriage of two brands with uniquely European identities, the design team set out to infuse the classic Le Méridien brand experience with details inspired by the city’s unique landscape. The Le Méridien lives within the same newly built structure as the AC Hotel, a brand with Spanish roots. Opening its doors in September 2017, this is the first dual-branded property of its kind in the United States for both the AC Hotel and Le Méridien. Upon entering the Le Méridien, guests and visitors are transported into a modern ski lodge. A dramatic, feminine and sinuously shaped stairway gently winds from the second floor down to the first, landing just inside the entrance to the hotel. Centered above is a dynamic, cascading light fixture inspired by the dance of the city’s many Cottonwood Tree seeds in the air. The custom artwork at the front desk includes a collection of hundreds of small, individual portraits of Marie Antoinette, all hand-painted by a local artist. Interior architecture is infused with local colors that communicate Denver’s terrain and urban spirit. The space is nestled into a cool grey color palette with striking and surprising accent color combinations reminiscent of blue skies, green aspens, and vivid sunsets of orange and crimson, together with furnishings designed to exaggerate the flirtation between playful Victorian pieces and purposeful, straight lines inherent to more contemporary styles. Architectural materials are beautiful and sparse, accented with graphics inspired by luxe, familiar materials and patterns commonly seen in high-fashion Alpine couture. Standout design details include thoughtfully curated artwork throughout the hotel that serves as an homage to the impact of the Victorian Era on the city’s growth. Vintage pieces are reassembled into contemporary sculptural art, while snow, a common element associated with the city, is deconstructed and reimagined into an art installation. Cool tones complement crisp lighting inspired by the natural grid patterns and aerial views of Denver, casting long shadows. The 272 guest rooms at the Le Méridien continue the celebration of the clean lines of mid-century modern design and enhance the building’s interior architecture. Embodying an “Alpine Couture” concept, each room is softly detailed featuring unique millwork, graphic prints reminiscent of snowboards and skis, warm woods, and neatly textured, bright walls. Striking a color combination that is 80% neutral and 20% high, dramatic color helps highlight thoughtfully curated artwork and results in a guest experience that is refreshing, bright, and exciting.

• Gina Deary - Principal

1475 California St,
Denver, CO 80202