Thompson Hotels, a collection of luxury hotels in major urban centers, has proudly announced its further North American expansion with the addition of the management of Hotel Sax Chicago. Hotel Sax, owned by LaSalle Hotel Properties, features 353 stylish guestrooms, a variety of state-of-the-art meeting and event spaces, as well as Chicago's hottest nightspot -- Crimson Lounge. Thompson Hotels begins operation of this chic hotel today, bringing the hotel group's bi-coastal sophistication to the "Windy City."

"I am excited to bring Thompson Hotels to the Chicago market, and I look forward to introducing the Thompson nuances of style and service to Hotel Sax," said Stephen Brandman, co-owner of Thompson Hotels. "Whether staying at 60 Thompson in NYC, Thompson Beverly Hills in LA or Hotel Sax Chicago, guests will rest assured that they will receive the same outstanding level of service that defines the Thompson brand."

"We have great confidence in Thompson Hotels as a strategic hotel operator, as they manage two other properties for us, Gild Hall in NYC and Donovan House in Washington, D.C.," said Michael Barnello, CEO and President of LaSalle Hotel Properties. "We believe that their combination of operating and marketing expertise will benefit the hotel immediately."

Situated in the heart of the city along the Chicago River, Hotel Sax is part of a vibrant complex offering an array of dining and entertainment venues, including Smith & Wollensky, House of Blues, Bin 36, A Mano Italian Trattoria, Dick's Last Resort and the upscale bowling alley, 10 Pin. In addition, Hotel Sax is just steps from Michigan Avenue's high-end shops, the Loop theaters and businesses, as well as all the downtown hotspots.

"As we have successfully established the Hollywood Roosevelt as the epitome of L.A. glamour and excitement, we set out to position Hotel Sax as the 'it' venue at the epicenter of Chicago's lush playground," said Jason Pomeranc, co-owner of Thompson Hotels. "With so many lifestyle and nightlife options offered, guests of Hotel Sax can expect the alluring, one-of-a-kind experience that Thompson Hotels is known for."

Hotel Sax is located at 333 N. Dearborn St. in Chicago. For more information, please visit or .

About Thompson Hotels: Thompson Hotels includes 60 Thompson, 6 Columbus, and Gild Hall in New York City, and the famed Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, and Thompson Beverly Hills in Los Angeles. Thompson Hotels is a partnership consisting of Larry, Michael, Jason Pomeranc and Stephen Brandman. Thompson Hotels offer a quiet luxury to their chic, urban, bohemian clientele. Their newest developments, including Donovan House in Washington D.C., Thompson LES and Smyth in NYC continue to expand their portfolio of elite hotels in gateway cities throughout North America. Upcoming properties, Thompson Toronto and Thompson Seoul, will be the first in Thompson's international expansion. Each hotel is filled with modern designs and thoughtful amenities, and end-destination restaurants and popular nightlife lounges, offering guests a unique and luxurious experience.

About LaSalle Hotel Properties: LaSalle Hotel Properties is a leading real estate investment trust (REIT), owning 31 upscale full-service hotels and resorts, totaling approximately 8,500 guestrooms in 14 markets in 11 states and the District of Columbia. The Company focuses on investing in upscale full-service hotels located in urban, resort and convention markets. LaSalle Hotel Properties seeks to increase shareholder value through strategic investments, aggressive asset management and partnering with premier hotel operating companies.

Erica Cornwall
Thompson