First Hospitality Group, Inc.’s Residence Inn by Marriott Downtown Omaha To Open September 17
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Former Omaha Federal Building to open its doors as a hotel to the public next week
ROSEMONT, Ill., September 12, 2013 – Rosemont, Ill.-based First Hospitality Group, Inc. announced that its latest adaptive reuse project, the conversion of the former Federal Building in Omaha, Neb., into a Residence Inn by Marriott is complete. The hotel will open to the public September 17. The 150-room, all-suite property will offer guests a unique hotel experience, blending history with modern-day comforts and conveniences. First Hospitality Group, Inc. President and COO Robert Habeeb made the announcement.
The extensive $23 million renovation project has retained many of the building’s historic and original characteristics and building materials, including the original marble, terrazzo tile, wooden railings and brass fixtures. Old items found in the building, such as the original 1934 FBI Most Wanted poster, will also be preserved and displayed.
Construction on the original Omaha Federal Building began in 1932 as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal during the Great Depression. Designed by Thomas Rogers Kimball, a renowned Omaha and Midwest architect, the building was assembled utilizing all American-made materials, including wood, marble and tile. The building is considered the first “modern classic” Art Deco design in federal government buildings and serviced several federal branches after opening its doors in 1934, including the District Court, IRS, FBI, Department of Agriculture, Department of Transportation and the Army Corps of Engineers. The Omaha Federal Building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2009.
For the upcoming grand opening, the Residence Inn Omaha Downtown is hosting a contest to name its Penthouse Suite on its Facebook page. The contestant who enters the winning name will receive a free two-night stay in the penthouse suite and a $100 gift card to Sullivan’s Steakhouse. For more information and to enter, visit www.facebook.com/ResidenceInnOmahaDowntown.
First Hospitality Group, Inc., is a national, experienced, and established hospitality management, and development company serving the investment and real estate industries. Since 1985, FHG has been an award-winning pioneer in the hospitality industry. FHG has successfully developed, marketed and managed over 16 brands and 50 properties throughout the Midwest. Visit www.fhginc.com.
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Andrea Trapani
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