Element Orlando Slated to Open in July 2016 less than a mile from Universal Studios Orlando
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE:HOT) today announced that its trailblazing Element brand plans to open a third hotel in Florida, less than a mile from Universal Studios Orlando. Element Orlando is slated to debut in July 2016, following next year's opening of both Element Orlando North and Element Miami Doral. Owned by Barakat Orlando Resort, LLC, developed by GCD Associates, and managed by New Jersey based Paramount Hotel Group, Element Orlando will offer 151 stylish, sustainable rooms and a light-filled atmosphere designed to fuel a life in balance and on the move.
"Element Orlando will offer travelers a smart, sustainable extended stay option in an unbeatable location near Orlando's world-renowned theme parks," said Brian McGuinness, Senior Vice President of Specialty Select Brands for Starwood. "At Element, guests enjoy a bright, energizing environment that's conducive to both work and play, as well as innovative brand-led programming."
The hotel will be located at 5875 Carrier Drive, less than a mile from Universal Studios Orlando, and just minutes from both SeaWorld and Walt Disney World Resort. The hotel will also be one mile from I Drive Live, a development opening in late 2014 with a Ferris wheel, Madam Tussaud's Wax Museum, Sea Life Aquarium, several restaurants and a brewery. The Orange County Convention Center, Orlando International Airport (MCO), and several premium golf courses are all within close proximity.
The stylish, sustainable rooms and suites at Element Orlando will feature a fluid design of modular furniture, swiveling flat-screen televisions, large desks with open shelving and custom-designed closets. Rooms will also offer fully equipped kitchens and the signature Heavenly® Bed, and spa-inspired bathrooms will feature an invigorating rain shower and dual-flush toilet. Other brand signatures will include a state-of-the-art, 24-hour fitness center, outdoor pool, and 750 square-foot meeting room with modular furnishings, a flexible layout and state-of-the-art technology that can be customized to meet any business or social needs. Guests can stay on the move with Element's complimentary bikes to borrow and enjoy fun and free extras including complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, the signature RISE breakfast, RELAX evening reception, and salon bar carts stocked with premium wines and beers, soft drinks and snacks, available after hours.
"Element is on track to double its portfolio in the next two years, fueled by the success of the brand's positioning and emphasis on clean, sustainable living," said Allison Reid, Senior Vice President of North America Development, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. "Equipped with everything guests need for a life in balance, Element Orlando will offer an entirely fresh perspective on the extended stay experience that will appeal to travelers visiting this popular tourist destination."
Element is the first major hotel brand to mandate that all properties pursue the U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification for high-performance buildings. It's recognized as an industry leader in the eco-space, and offers travelers a fresh, reimagined interpretation of the extended stay hotel experience.
About Barakat Orlando Resort, LLC
Barakat Orlando Resort LLC is the owner, Roy Samad's first venture into the Orlando hospitality market. Roy operates a number of successful companies in the construction industry in Alberta Canada and internationally.
About GCD Associates, Inc.
Goldsmith Consulting Design Associates is a full service owner's representative and design group based in Maryland. Working with the owner and Starwood Hotels, GCD was instrumental in facilitating the assembly of all the moving parts involved in launching the hotel's development. The next phase for GCD will be the design and construction management of Orlando's newest Element. www.gcdassoc.com.
About Paramount Hotel Group
Paramount Hotel Group is a third-party, independent management company that focuses on hotel operations, acquisition and development opportunities. The company operates select and full service hotels throughout the U.S. and is a Preferred Starwood management company. Additional information about the company may be found at www.paramounthotelgroup.com.
About Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.
Starwood Hotels &
