Originally Posted by
itsaboutthejourney
I've only stayed at the Renaissance twice, but was dissapointed with the breakfast
It was my understanding that the Renaissance brand was supposed to be Marriott's attempt to cater to people who are interested in a bit more upscale experience from a regular Marriott as well as artsy design, so I thought this Barcelona property was tacky in a failed attempt at that.
At the LeM, they have a full line of Illy coffee beverages, cava, several Asian dishes and my favorite; churros with hot chocolate! LeM can vary significantly in terms of room types/upgrades (I've had 20+ stays there), but overall it's a great location, with excellent design.
As always, YMMV. I realize not everyone places an importance on aesthetics and food & beverage.
Fair enough.
Sounds like if you go back to Barcelona you might be better served (if you decide to stray to the Marriott side) at the Cotton House, Autograph Collection, which is definitely not cookie cutter.
Autograph Collection is Marriott's boutique brand.
"The Cotton House, Barcelona, will be located in an iconic 19th century building in the heart of the city center formerly known as the headquarters of the Association of Cotton Manufacturers.
The 83-room boutique hotel will feature unique public spaces including several unique lounge areas, a rooftop pool and terrace, as well as a lush garden terrace area for dining and drinks. A large number of rooms feature balconies to take in the view and recharge after exploring the city. Interior design for the hotel is being crafted by the renowned Lázaro Rosa Violán studio. The design will be inspired by the decorative arts of the building’s original architecture while ensuring a luxury experience for the guests."
In the Cotton House thread, someone stayed at both CH & the R & preferred CH. Also, someone noted this re: CH. "the architecture and design of the building itself is definitely interesting. Do take the stairs at least once."
"Cotton House is in the former headquarters of the Association of Cotton House Manufacturers. The iconic building is in every way representative of the XIX century, a period which has marked the spirit and culture of Barcelona. The hotel has 83 elegant and comfortable rooms, of which five are spacious suites.
The entrance of the emblematic building is a beautiful vestibule covered in mirrors, followed by a hall which then gives access to two stairways: one, a grand marble staircase, and the other, a spiral staircase built in the 50's that received much acclamation among experts in architecture.
The old noble areas of the building contain an elegant library, several great rooms and lounges where the bar and restaurant are located, a luminous glass conservatory and a 300 sqm terrace with lush vegetation. On the sixth floor there is a serene exterior pool, a small gym and a massage room."
There are 70 photos of the property on the property's website. Here's one of the spiral staircase.