Star-Studded Evening Marks the Grand Opening of Iconic JW Marriott Essex House

Celebrating an evening of iconic luxury, guests were treated to original creations in art, floral design, and culinary, as well as a special performance to cap the evening by an iconic rock legend.

In partnership with Christie's, JW Marriott unveiled four specially commissioned works by emerging artists including Mat Larkin, Jack Shannon, Julian Wellisz, and Lindsay Keys, each inspired by the unmistakable Essex House sign illuminating the New York City skyline since the 1930's. The exhibition of these original works will be on display in the lobby through October. The installation will be the first in a series of art exhibitions at JW Marriott Essex House celebrating the work of emerging artists. As part of its global partnership with Christie's, JW Marriott properties worldwide host public exhibitions and previews of major Christie's auctions featuring original, rare, archived or indigenous art.

A theatrical floral arrangement depicting the iconic Essex House sign as imagined by Jane Packer, one of the world's foremost artistic floral company's with outposts in New York, London and Tokyo, anchored the heart of the bustling lobby. JW Marriott Essex House and Jane Packer will now offer a 'Botanical Beauty School' experience, an extraordinary getaway combining luxurious overnight accommodations, a customized course at Jane Packer Flower School, and Art of Aroma cocktails featuring seasonal, edible blooms.

With 60 properties in 24 countries and an additional 20 expected to open by 2015, the JW Marriott luxury brand is growing rapidly, bringing a fresh perspective to the luxury travel industry worldwide. The grand opening of the JW Marriott Essex House comes on the heels of the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, which debuted in February 2013 as the world's tallest hotel. The exceptional hotel is the brand's first Marquis property outside of North America.

With a coveted address on Central Park South and an inimitable Art Deco sign atop the 40-story hotel, the 509-room JW Marriott Essex House first opened in 1931 and has hosted a wide range of dignitaries and celebrities alike over the years. Today, the hotel features world-class amenities including a full-service spa and fitness center, a fine-dining restaurant and well-appointed meeting and event spaces. The 509 guestrooms offer stylish furnishings that celebrate the property's rich history while offering guests all the comforts of a high-end hotel.

Hechler"We are delighted to have been able to celebrate both the Essex House and the JW Marriott brandwith our Marriott family and friends" said Arne Sorenson, Marriott International President & CEO "JW Marriott Essex House is a noteworthy addition to the JW Marriott collection, providing quiet luxury and crafted experiences – exactly what today's JW Marriott guest is seeking."

"JW Marriott Essex House is an exceptionally iconic hotel located at an unprecedented address," said Mitzi Gaskins, Vice President and Global Brand Manager for JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts. "JW Marriott could not be more excited to be part of a property with such a historical presence and look forward to the continued success of both the Essex House and the JW Marriott brand."

Offering commanding views of Central Park, the Essex House recently underwent a comprehensive $90 million renovation in 2007 and is among the most luxurious and recognized hotels in Manhattan.

For more information about the JW Marriott Essex House or to make a reservation, visit www.jwmarriott.com,or contact the hotel directly on (212) 247-0300 or online at www.essexhouse.com.

About JW Marriott

JW Marriott is part of Marriott International's luxury portfolio and consists of beautiful properties in gateway cities and distinctive resort locations around the world. These elegant hotels cater to today's sophisticated, self-assured travelers, offering them the quiet luxury they seek in a warmly authentic, relaxed atmosphere lacking in pretense. JW Marriott properties artfully provide highly crafted, anticipatory experiences that are reflective of their locale so that their guests have the time to focus on what is most important to them. Currently, there are 60 JW Marriott hotels in 24 countries; by 2015 the portfolio is expected to encompass 79 properties in 28 countries. Visit us online, jwmarriott.com, @jwmarriott and facebook.com/JWMarriott.