New breed of hotels links lodging and lifestyle

August 19, 2008 | Hospitality Industry

Stepping through the double sliding-glass doors of the Element Lexington on an August afternoon is like passing through an airlock between a sauna and a sleek and spacious living room, writes MSNBC's Rob Lovitt.

As Starwood’s entry into the extended-stay market, the hotel is designed to provide an upscale residential ambience. (It’s “Inspired by Westin,” in company parlance.) There’s an indoor pool, fitness center and a grab-and-go pantry that stocks healthy convenience foods, beer and wine and small bins filled with bulk nuts, candies and granolas.

The hotel’s 123 suites range from studios to two-bedroom units, all of which feature platform-mounted Heavenly Beds, spa-inspired bathrooms with glass shower enclosures and kitchenettes with full-size refrigerators, two-burner stoves and dishwashers. Swivel the 32-inch LCD TV toward the bed and you can fall asleep to Leno, Letterman or a host of on-demand movies just like you do at home.

Get the full story at MSNBC

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