Radisson Blu Warwick Hotel

Although this hotel is the third Radisson Blu hotel in the U.S., it was the first conversion to the brand, versus new construction. The original hotel built in 1926 is a landmark in Philadelphia and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The approach was to neutralize the more ornate background pieces and infuse them with some strong contemporary pieces that guests have come to expect from the brand.

There were slight changes made to the exterior including a new front awning, which, because of the history, had to be the same length as the original. We also added up-lighting around the exterior to highlight the historic architecture and give a sense of arrival.

There are a few features in the lobby we wanted to make sure we preserved, such as the interesting plaster features, the fireplaces, and the large windows have all remained intact.

Standout features of the new lobby include predominant pendant lighting in a mix of pieces from Mooi (Dutch) and Bocci (Canadian). A feature rug of black and white text in the entrance lobby creates a level of curiosity for guests and complements two massive surface applied art installations on both bookend walls that encompass the two existing fireplaces, which now work. These two pieces set the overall tone of the room and reinforce Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group's commitment to a strong contemporary art presence in each of its new Radisson Blu hotels.

The graphic style of the rug and the walls are a contemporary take on the great railway boards of the past, and are a nod to the critical part Philadelphia played in establishing this great national heritage.

The word walls in the hotel lobby are a minor representation of the hotel's view of individuality and the brand's necessity to have a distinct sense of place. In creating this sense of place, guests also then question the notion of art versus decoration versus graphics within the context of one of Philadelphia's founding cultural principles - Brotherly Love

Each wall tells the same story through the eyes of two brothers who were born at the same time, but separated by only the narrowest of margins. The walls of text provide two different reflective perspectives of the same micro view.

There is a long-standing historical connection between Radisson, Scandinavian design, architecture and in particular legendary architect, Arne Jacobsen. Jacobsen’s stunning Royal Hotel in Copenhagen – the world’s first designer hotel, created by for SAS (Scandinavian Airline Systems) – that launched in Denmark in 1960. SAS International Hotels is born and in 2009 becomes Radisson Blu.

Expanding on this relationship Graven has used the brand new Ro chair from Fritz Hansen as the main lounge chair within the lobby. These are a series of gray, high back lounge chairs that physically encapsulate guests and afford both comfort and privacy when required. The Ro chairs are complemented by bespoke mirror polished stainless steel lounge tables with accessories by Dutch design aficionados Pols Potten.