National Ventures Group, the developer behind the proposed hotel made the announcement that architect Joe Rabun has introduced some changes in the design.
The new L-shaped hotel’s design has been modified by incorporating some suggestions from the mayor. The main objective is to offer the hotel a look that mixes traditional and contemporary styles.
The new Westin property will feature a street-level restaurant as part of the Marketplace entertainment district and will have a cocktail lounge. A 4,000 square feet ballroom and 8,000 square feet of meeting space are also included.
Rabun’s initial drawings for the L-shaped hotel feature a facade that was lighter in colour. The structure had panels rising at each end. The new drawings retain the glass walls overlooking the entertainment district, but features a darker facade and the panels have been removed at each end.
The design for the entertainment district are expected to be submitted to the city for feedback and approval soon. City and BJCC officials have said that the Westin and entertainment district will both take about 18 months to complete, opening around October 2012.
