PHILADELPHIA, March 1, 2010 -- The Radisson Plaza-Warwick Hotel Philadelphia today announced the completion of a five-year, multi-phase USD 22 million renovation. The final phase of renovation that has recently been completed includes an additional USD two million investment for the modern transformation of the National Historic Landmark Hotel's mezzanine level pre-function area and meeting rooms, public restrooms, and the Locust Street entrance. The hotel commissioned Gettys Hospitality Design and Development of New York to oversee the redesign. Carlson Hotels owns and manages the hotel.  

"In conjunction with planned conversion of eight floors of the hotel to exclusive, luxury condominiums five years ago, we embarked on a comprehensive, multi-phased upgrade to this landmark hotel to stay attuned to the needs of today's travelers," said Thorsten Kirschke, executive vice president and chief operating officer for Carlson Hotels – The Americas.   "In 2007, we completed a USD 20 million renovation that encompassed the hotel lobby, Grand Ballroom and guest rooms, invested in improving the infrastructure and developed the Tavern 17 restaurant.  The hotel has been a major part of our strategic growth efforts in the United States to expand the brand's presence in major metropolitan markets including the Northeast region."

Gettys had the goal of updating the classic interior to a chic modern ambiance. Historic neo-classic design elements are now blended into a contemporary 21st century concept, which provides the hotel with a deeply rooted sense of authenticity.  

"The transformation of the Radisson Plaza-Warwick Hotel Philadelphia is a true testament to Radisson's commitment to elevating the brands' quality in North America as it is known for its international properties," said Jim Riker, general manager of the Radisson Plaza-Warwick Hotel Philadelphia.  "Bearing measurable success, Gettys met the design challenge of modernizing and updating the public spaces of the property while paying homage to the classic look of our traditional architecture.   The hotel has raised the bar for high-caliber revitalizations to come forth from the brand in the future."

Some additional final refurbishment planned includes the guest room corridors and new lighting in the lobby to highlight the arched fenestrations and limestone fireplaces, while anchoring the space to a human scale.

Among many of the design elements used in the meeting room pre-function area, the carpet designs have been interpreted using color emblematic of a lace pattern from 1920's women's fashion, with a layout that orients the guest with its unexpected scale. Mindful lighting is also executed throughout the public areas and sensitive to the overall ambience and task specific functions identified in each of the spaces.  

The meeting rooms are fitted with ergonomic seating, and modular tables with state-of-the-art technology capabilities. A custom beverage credenza incorporates a refrigerator and storage for meeting room supplies; all to deliver efficiency for today's meeting attendees' demands.  

Guests are greeted by a lobby of historic grandeur furnished with contemporary furniture, finishes and check-in pods. The hotel is rich in tradition, as it has been servicing elite Philadelphians and guests for many years. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Plaza-Warwick Hotel was originally constructed in 1926. With 301 handsomely appointed rooms, this historic yet modern downtown Philadelphia hotel is located just off the world-renowned Rittenhouse Square, the city's most prestigious residential, commercial and business district. The hotel houses three restaurants: The Prime Rib, The Coffee Bar and Tavern 17. For more information, please visit www.radisson.com/hotels/paphilly.

About Carlson Hotels
Carlson Hotels is a leading global hotel company with more than 1,060 locations in 77 countries. Its brands include: Regent®, Radisson®, Park Plaza®, Country Inns & Suites By Carlson(SM) and Park Inn®. Carlson Hotels is part of Carlson, a global hospitality and travel company. For more information, please visit www.carlsonhotels.com.