�The Fairmont Kansas City is a hotel and meeting place for local residents,� said General Manager Mike Casola.  �We want to provide a convivial, urban atmosphere where Kansas Citians and their guests can gather for special occasions, business and leisure.  We recognize the unique opportunity this property offers to showcase the city�s distinct charm.�

Located on the edge of the Plaza, The Fairmont Kansas City will feature elements borrowed from this renowned pedestrian shopping and dining district.  The new design palette will incorporate the saturated jewel tones of its Mediterranean-inspired surroundings and feature many pieces from local artists.  Whimsical elements that salute the area�s agrarian roots will also be blended into the motif.

Maritz, Wolff & Co., a hotel investment group, purchased the landmark hotel in November 1999.  �Our belief is that a luxury hotel should draw inspiration from its physical and cultural surroundings,� said John Scott, vice president, Maritz, Wolff & Co.  �We are very pleased that the designer shared our vision and incorporated so many elements from the community.  The refurbishment will offer an elegant, relaxing atmosphere for guests while enhancing the ambience of the numerous social and business functions held at The Fairmont Kansas City.�

When contracted to oversee the property�s makeover, Susan Butcher, of Susan Butcher Design, Santa Fe, New Mexico, was challenged to complete the design refurbishment while maintaining most of the existing mahogany woodwork and marble floors.

With a nod to the Plaza�s singular style and influence, Ms. Butcher immediately saw the property�s potential.  �The design concept for The Fairmont Kansas City is light and contemporary,� says Ms. Butcher.  �New upholstery shapes and textiles, wall coverings and artwork will complement The Fairmont Kansas City�s existing interior millwork and stonework.  Incorporating the brilliant Mediterranean colors and architectural style of the Plaza will give the property an individual continuity that embraces the Plaza, yet sets the hotel apart as a distinct destination in its own right.�

Beginning her career in architecture, Ms. Butcher developed an interest in interior design while working for Michael Graves Architect on the Walt Disney World Dolphin and Swan Hotels.  Her design creations are eclectic and extensive, ranging in scale from furniture, china, wall coverings, area rugs, jewelry, leather accessories and fabrics, to residential, commercial and cultural properties.  Ms. Butcher�s projects include hotels in Nevis West Indies, San Jose and Puerto Rico, as well as several private residences around the world.  She received an honorable mention in the Vietnam War Memorial competition.

Ms. Butcher believes that a common thread of distinct personality entwines the design of a hotel and a private residence.  �Hotels are the home away from home for travelers and a gathering place for local residents.  A property should be comfortable and welcoming, while at the same time, offering a taste of the local flavor and culture.  Similar to a home, a well-designed hotel offers a sanctuary from the rough-and-tumble of every day life,� says Ms.  Butcher.

Reflagged in February, The Fairmont Kansas City at the Plaza is once again Kansas City�s �grand hotel.� Welcome home.

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is the largest luxury hotel management company in North America, with a collection of 39 distinctive city and resort hotels throughout the U.S., Canada, Bermuda, Barbados and Mexico.  With over a century of experience, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is committed to service excellence with approximately 18,160 rooms and 19,600 employees.