I sometimes joke that I am exactly, 100% Kimpton's target market. I hatecookie cutter chain hotels (they make me feel like just another day on the road). With the IC upgrades, I love getting interesting/different rooms (and a chance at some really fabulous suites). I love that their hotels are nice/upscale without being off-puttingly fancy to me. I love the focus on food/drink. I love the little perqs and the element of surprise. I've got pets. I care about the social issues they promote (environmentalism, LGBT-friendly).
If IHG is able to preserve all of that, and expand the network, that would be excellent. I've got some doubts, but I'll reserve judgment.
In other news, I spend way too much time thinking about Kimpton as a company/brand. Probably because I spend too much time in their hotels.