The Elliott, which opens downtown in the Spring of 2001, is the vision of developer Richard C. Hedreen to bring to the Pacific Northwest a one-of-a-kind property that is �unequaled in luxury and unmistakably Seattle.�  The 425-room, $140 million Elliott is distinguished as one of The Leading Hotels of the World, and will be a leader in high-speed Internet access.

Matteson is relocating to Seattle from New York City where for two years he worked at the famed 900-room New York Palace Hotel, the largest five-diamond hotel in the United States.  A California native, Matteson has a bachelor of science in business/finance from San Diego State University.  His extensive luxury hotel background includes Ritz Carlton, at hotels and resorts in Pasadena, Calif.; Marina Del Rey, Calif.; San Francisco, Calif.; Laguna Niguel, Calif.; Sydney, Australia and Hawaii, and the Four Seasons Hotel in Newport Beach, Calif.

Matteson will translate Hedreen�s vision of The Elliott into a superior guest experience that will reflect the �vitality and innovative spirit of Seattle.�  The Pacific Northwest is, he said, �an ideal place to introduce a fresh definition of elegance and luxury that will set a standard in our country.�  His leadership team will consist of 75 managers and 425 employees.

Matteson�s family, wife Michele and their two children, eight-year-old Austin and six-year-old Victoria, will join him later this fall.

Seattle-based developer R.C. Hedreen Co. has drawn upon 30 years of industry expertise to create its vision for a new kind of luxury hotel.  An immensely powerful wireless network will enable The Elliott to provide guest services unprecedented by any other luxury hotel in the world.  The Elliott�s superlative location is within walking distance of Seattle�s most desired shops and restaurants, as well as the city�s highest quality cultural and entertainment attractions.  The Elliott restaurant will rival the best in Seattle, and will showcase the talents of a James Beard award-wining chef.  Its design reflects the natural beauty unique to the Pacific Northwest and works by regional artists will carry the �unmistakably Seattle� theme throughout the hotel.