Cincinnati is a place known for its historic architecture and beautiful buildings. However, up until recently, some of its iconic buildings had fallen into disrepair and remained empty. The revitalization of Cincinnati has given new life to some beautiful landmarks, and nowhere is this more apparent than the Downtown Cincinnati Renaissance Hotel.
Renowned architect, Daniel Burnham, designed the Bartlett Building to be a bank known as the Union Trust. When the building was completed in 1901, it was the tallest building in Ohio. After remaining vacant for years, the structure was completely renovated into the luxury hotel it is today and is now on the National Register for Historic Places.
“It sets us apart from every hotel in the city,” says Lisa Keller, director of sales and marketing. “It’s a unique combination of old-world elegance meets modern sophistication.”
The hotel currently is 18 stories, with 323 modern guest rooms and 40 suites. But its unique nods to history are found throughout. There are elegant silver-studded chairs in the lobby that feature quarters as studs, honoring the building’s previous history as a bank. The restaurant, named for its architect, D. Burnham, features craft cocktails, farm-to-table American cuisine, and weekly events. Look closely at the antique metal doors to find eagles sculpted into the design.
Perhaps the highlight of the historic renovation process is the Renaissance Hotel’s gorgeous event spaces. The Burnham Hall Ballroom is its largest space that retains elements of its past as a bank lobby. It features a 40-foot domed ceiling with hand-painted tiles. With 7,000 square feet of space, it’s a perfect spot for weddings and events of up to 800 guests. It even includes a second-floor corridor for cocktail hours and pre-wedding receptions.
“Weddings are our big highlight,” says Nikki Holthaus, catering manager for the hotel. “But we’ve hosted The Dragonfly Foundation, Great American, and Procter & Gamble.”
The Flat Iron Meeting room can accommodate 100 people for meetings, intimate receptions, wedding ceremonies, and more. Guests can choose to keep the space private or open up the doors to overlook the ballroom below. Large windows offer natural light and stunning views of the city.
The Banker’s Boardroom, a smaller meeting space, still has its original dark wood paneling and windows from 1901. It’s an ideal location for gathering a team for critical decision-making. Next door is the Union Trust event space, another working area that pays tribute to its original namesake.
“Our function space is very unique,” Keller says. “You get the best of both worlds. The classic opulence of the building complete with modern touches.”
For those who love honoring Cincinnati’s history but want all of the amenities, the Renaissance Hotel offers the perfect combination.
The Renaissance Cincinnati Downtown Hotel is located at 36 East 4th Street, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45202. For more information, visit renaissance-hotels.marriott.com or call 513-333-0000.