Pendry Chicago Appoints Stephen Blackford as General Manager
ORANGE COUNTY, CALIF. (January 12, 2021) – Pendry Hotels & Resorts is proud to announce the appointment of Stephen Blackford as general manager of Pendry Chicago, slated to open spring 2021. Pendry Chicago will be located in Chicago’s Loop neighborhood, amid a dynamic collection of cultural attractions, and distinct restaurants and shops. Its central location and proximity to other famed Chicago neighborhoods makes it the perfect launching pad to explore the city. Chicago’s vibrancy surrounds the hotel with some of city’s best shopping, dining, cultural sights and parks all within easy walking distance. Explore the Chicago River Walk, The Art Institute of Chicago, Willis Tower, The Magnificent Mile, Wrigley Field, Soldier Field and more.
“Stephen’s leadership skills combined with his in-depth knowledge of the Chicago market will make him significant to the success of Pendry Chicago. We’re delighted to have him join us,” said Alan J. Fuerstman, founder, chairman and CEO of Montage International.
Blackford brings nearly a decade of hospitality experience, specifically in the local Chicago area, to his role with Pendry Hotels & Resorts. Most recently, he served as managing director of St. Jane Hotel, where he oversaw all business operations and was responsible for providing strategic guidance and direction in terms of the hotel’s sales & revenue, guest experience, rooms division, food and beverage, and financial performance. He also held the general manager role at The Ambassador Chicago, The James Hotel Chicago, and Affinia Chicago, sister property to The James.
Pendry Chicago will be a creative rebirth of the Burnham Brother’s iconic, bold and playful Art Deco building that has cemented itself as a Chicago landmark. The historic Carbide & Carbon Building dates back to 1929 and is famed for its unique Champagne bottle design and extravagant details featuring dark granite at the base, deep green Terracotta on the tower, and 24-karat gold leaf at the top. Pendry Chicago will bring a new era of modern-day luxury, making it an ideal destination for business travel; a weekend getaway; a cultural escape to the city; an elegant and elevated private wedding or event; or simply an unparalleled opportunity to revel in one of America’s most vibrant cities, accompanied by the utmost in service and hospitality.
For more information, please visit www.pendry.com or follow @pendryhotels and @pendrychicago.
###
About Pendry Chicago
Pendry Chicago, set to open in spring 2021, is a creative rebirth of the Burnham Brother’s iconic, bold and playful Art Deco Carbide & Carbon building that has cemented itself as a Chicago landmark. Steeped in history and anchored in style, the modern-day luxury hotel is located in Chicago’s Loop neighborhood, amid a dynamic collection of cultural attractions, robust offices and corporate headquarters, and distinct restaurants and shops. Its central location and proximity to other famed Chicago neighborhoods makes it the ideal launching pad to explore the City. The reimagined 1929 landmark features 364 redesigned guestrooms and suites, and public spaces thoughtfully designed by Alessandro Munge’s Studio Munge including a signature restaurant and bar concept overseen by Andy Masi, and his Clique Hospitality group. In addition, the hotel features a lobby bar and lounge, a spectacular rooftop terrace, 12,000 square feet of meetings and event space, curated fitness and wellness programming, and an extensive art collection. Pendry Chicago is both a restoration and a reinvigoration of a Chicago architectural marvel. For more information, follow @pendryhotels or visit www.pendry.com/chicago/.
About Pendry Hotels & Resorts
Pendry Hotels & Resorts is a new luxury hospitality brand from Montage International. Pendry combines inspired design with a celebration of culture and authentic service tailored to today’s cultured world traveler. Founders Alan J. Fuerstman and Michael Fuerstman’s well-seasoned experience in the hospitality industry serves as the foundation for the brand. Each property is injected with a unique perspective on contemporary style, and an emphasis on the arts and local community in the city it calls home. The portfolio of hotels includes Pendry San Diego and Sagamore Pendry Baltimore. Opening in 2021 is Pendry West Hollywood, Pendry Manhattan West, Pendry Park City, and Pendry Chicago. Opening in 2022 is Pendry La Quinta, Pendry Natirar, and Pendry Washington DC – The Wharf. Pendry Hotels & Resorts is a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts. For more information on Pendry Hotels & Resorts, follow @pendryhotels or visit www.pendry.com.