DOWNEY – The Embassy Suites, Downey’s largest hotel and this city’s only lodging with a minimum three-star rating, is undergoing an extensive renovation of its public areas. Hotel officials didn’t say how much the upgrades are worth, other than it is a “multi-million dollar renovation” that will pay homage to Downey’s aerospace history.

The 219-room hotel is updating its lobby, atrium, pool deck area, restaurant, lounge, meeting rooms, business center and fitness room.

Renovations should take about three months to complete and wrap up in the springtime, company officials said.

“When we unveil our new hotel, we hope our guests will be delighted by our fresh and sophisticated decor and modern amenities,” said Maurice Casaus, the hotel’s general manager. “The fully redesigned atrium will enhance and improve Embassy’s open space environment to provide both locals and hotel guests a more intimate and welcoming atmosphere.”

The hotel’s aerospace theme can be observed in various parts of the lobby, including the hotel’s accent chandeliers and the constellation-inspired wall decor behind the front desk.

In addition to the new design, the property is introducing a guest pantry, and the pool area will showcase a new deck and renovated bathrooms.

Guests will enjoy unlimited snacks and other amenities on the hotel’s new floor.

The hotel already features more than 6,000 square feet of meeting space and seven meeting rooms. The on-site restaurant is Brickstone’s Grill and Lounge, which was previously a Firestone Grill.

The hotel was last updated in 2009, when all 219 guest rooms were renovated at a cost of $8 million.

Renovations at the Embassy Suites come as the city of Downey attempts to attract another major hotel to Firestone Boulevard.

Last month, this newspaper reported that Downey is accepting development proposals for a parcel of publicly-owned land at 9066 Firestone Blvd., across from Stonewood Center.

Specifically, Downey wants a name-brand hotel with at least 120 rooms and 3,000 feet of meeting space.

Another hotel is also anticipated to open at the Promenade at Downey development under construction at the former Downey Studios, city officials said.

Downey currently has eight hotels and inns – not including motels – offering a combined 485 rooms.

 

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Published: Feb. 5, 2015 - Volume 13 - Issue 43