Iconic Dearborn Hotel Becomes the Midwest's First Autograph by Marriott Property

Greenwood Hospitality Group announced plans today to transform a longtime Dearborn hotel icon into an inspired new Michigan hospitality destination: The Henry. The Henry, formerly the Ritz-Carlton, will become part of the Autograph Collection by Marriott, a select group of upscale, luxurious independent hotels that combine world-class service with compelling, memorable and distinctive personalities in major cities and desired destinations around the world. The Henry will join an initial group of eight Autograph by Marriott hotels across the country, and will be the second Midwest destination in the Autograph by Marriott portfolio.

The eight existing Autograph Collection by Marriott properties – The El Monte Sagrado in Taos, New Mexico; The Grand Bohemian Hotel in Asheville, North Carolina; The Mansion on Forsyth Park and The Bohemian Hotel Riverfront in Savannah, Georgia; The Casa Monica Hotel in St. Augustine, Florida; The Grand Bohemian Hotel and The Celebration Hotel in Orlando, Florida; and The Hotel Minneapolis in Minneapolis, Minnesota – are the first locations in a planned 2010 rollout that is slated to include approximately 25 Autograph by Marriott hotels by year's end.

Greenwood Hospitality completed the acquisition of the iconic Dearborn hotel on June 3, 2010 on behalf of its investment client and will oversee the repositioning and management of the property.  Ownership plans are underway to embark on a multimillion-dollar renovation and facelift for The Henry. Greenwood Hospitality principal Thomas Conran explains that a decades-long tradition of extraordinary service and world-class luxury at the Dearborn hotel will be an integral part of The Henry's distinctive new identity:

"From architecture to ambience, traditional elements of upscale luxury and exceptional service have long been a defining characteristic of this Dearborn institution," says Conran. "The Henry will not only maintain that tradition, but will provide guests with an appealing new contemporary context in which to experience the very best in upscale hospitality."

The name for this new property is an homage to the famous Henrys throughout history who have made their mark on American culture, from Henry James and Henry Ford, to Henry Joseph Darger and Henry David Thoreau.  

A bright new color palette and rotating series of contemporary artwork selections are representative of a larger rebranding initiative. By juxtaposing the familiar and traditional with décor and design elements that exude a fresh contemporary flair, Greenwood Hospitality plans to establish The Henry as a unique destination; an experience that meets and exceeds the highest guest expectations for attentive service and high-quality hospitality in a comfortable and visually appealing environment. The innovative Autograph Collection by Marriott concept groups hotels according to the experience guests are seeking, from Boutique Arts and Chic, to Iconic Historic, Urban Edge, or Spa and Lodge. The Henry, which is thoughtfully designed to address the needs of the modern traveler looking for a luxurious independent hotel experience, is set to become an inspired addition to that portfolio.

"The ladies and gentlemen who have come to define exceptional service in this region will continue to serve our guests at The Henry," remarks Conran. "Guests can expect both a beautiful environment and world-class service at a destination hotel that will become a state landmark."