News | October 24, 2007

Travelers To Rise, Shine And Thrive At The Baltimore/Washington International Airport

White Plains, NY - Travelers to the Baltimore/Washington metropolitan area can now rise and shine to the newest mode of extended stay travel. Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., announced an agreement with The Buccini Pollin Group, Inc. to open an ELEMENT hotel at the Baltimore/Washington International Airport in late 2009. Inspired by Westin Hotels & Resorts, ELEMENT BWI will offer a new extended stay experience that weaves together intuitive design, unique social venues, modern amenities and eco-friendly touches. After a perfect night's sleep on the Westin brand's renowned Heavenly Bed, guests can guarantee that they will leave ELEMENT BWI knowing what it truly means to wake up and thrive.

Awaken to Smart Design

The ELEMENT brand's unique, smart design philosophy is evident from the moment guests arrive. After passing through a signature portal that provides a literal bridge to the ELEMENT interior haven, guests will be greeted with streams of natural light from a multi-storied window wall. The vitality of the lobby will be matched by the energy of the hotel's outdoor fire pit and barbecue, where a regular nightly gathering will give guests an opportunity to interact while sipping a glass of wine or draft microbrew beer.

"We are so excited to open an ELEMENT hotel in the greater DC and Baltimore area," said Brian McGuinness, Vice President, ELEMENT & ALOFT Hotels. "In the extended stay arena ELEMENT BWI is unlike any other hotel of its kind – providing guests with a haven that enables them to thrive and feel their best while on the road."

The smart design and clever use of space in the hotel's 123 private spaces will be aimed at encouraging guest productivity while also facilitating relaxation. ELEMENT BWI's open, modular flow will blend together each part of the private space to create a residential feel. Guests will be able to customize their spaces to match their habits through multi-purpose, modular furniture, swiveling flat-screen televisions, large desks with open shelving and custom-designed closets. In addition, each private space offers a complete kitchen that features modern, energy-star rated appliances and all the tools and utensils to prepare a gourmet meal. Guests will also rest soundly in the renowned Westin Heavenly Bed, and recharge each morning in a sleek, contemporary bathroom with an oversized spa-inspired shower.

A Vital Travel Hub

ELEMENT BWI is only a short drive away from our nation's capital. Washington DC is home to some of the world's most famous landmarks and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States offering countless museums, performing arts venues and world-class culinary and shopping experiences.

If you want to take a break from visiting our nation's capital, you can find the thriving city of Baltimore just eight miles north of BWI. Whether you want to explore the city's famous inner harbor, visit the Baltimore National Aquarium (Maryland's most popular tourist destination) or catch an Orioles game at Camden Yards, Baltimore has something for everyone.

"BWI Airport is a perfect place for the ELEMENT brand," said Dave Pollin. "We are so excited to offer travelers to the vibrant Baltimore/Washington metropolitan area a fresh outlook on extended stay travel and endless opportunities to thrive while away from home for longer periods of time."

Space to Live Your Life

A signature breakfast offering, fully equipped fitness center and uninterrupted indoor/outdoor public spaces will deliver a multi-functional, natural environment that provides guests with the space to work, relax or socialize. Intuitive staff will provide guests the personalized attention they need and the space they desire to live a complete and balanced life while at the hotel.

ELEMENT BWI will also feature 700 square feet of meeting space, an integrated technology center and library, as well as café seating, a workspace and a flexible lobby lounge space. For breakfast, guests will be able to choose among several options, including the ELEMENT signature hot breakfast sandwich, fresh fruit and a variety of cereals to choose from the cereal bar.

SOURCE: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide,Inc.