Form dictates function.
The foyer and common areas are great, but unfortunately the rooms, service and general
function of this hotel were a disappointment and failed to match the hype.
Pros.
Very stylish.
Great food.
Good location.
Fairly priced.
Cons.
Very thin walls - we could clearly hear our neighbors coughing and sneezing.
The 's-fold curtains' look great but they don't fully block out light so expect a dimmed rather than darkened room. We woke with the sun so I wouldn't recommend this hotel for those suffering jet-lag or wanting a late start.
Loud external air conditioner / heaters.
TV volume restricted so as not to disturb neighbors so don't expect to operate the aircon and watch TV at the same time.
A 'loft room' is actually a slighter larger room than a standard Chicago 5-star king.
Inconsistent service - both in the restaurant and when asking (twice) for repairs to the television.
Only 2 very small lifts for a 17 story hotel so expect to wait.
Overall, a great looking hotel, but the designers have allowed form to dictate function. And while we always prefer to stay in stylish boutique hotels rather than corporate hotels, we expect the basics to work first. For an Ian Schrager hotel, we expected more.