Similar to Marriott branded properties, you will find a big difference between the new ones (recently built or restored) vs. ones from earlier decades. From a stay at the Pere Marquette in New Orleans right before Katrina, I would compare the new positioning somewhere towards a W, but brighter and less hip wanne be/attitude. In terms of the actual room comfort, it was ok, but not any nicer than better Marriott properties I have stayed at. I have found some of the international properties (like Tokyo Ginza) to be quite nice.

I found a press release from Marriott circa 2001 that describes what they were/are going for:
http://www.hotel-online.com/News/PR2...nceDesign.html

Renaissance Hotels, Resorts and Suites, an upscale full-service lodging brand of Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR), is further refining its brand positioning to provide properties with uniquely expressive design, a new level of "Savvy Service" and restaurants serving contemporary local cuisine that appeal to both hotel and local customers.