Radisson Blu Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota, is putting on the final touches before its March 2013 debut. Jim Hamilton of Glasgow-based Graven Images has created a fashion-forward design with chic, modern Midwestern appeal. On either side of the entryway to the hotel, small backlit windows conjure up an artful interpretation of fireflies on a Minnesota summer’s night. The lobby showcases a black-and-white color palette with deep blue accents, along with as distinct lighting features, clean-lined seating, and contemporary glass paneling. The back wall of the two-story lobby resembles tissue paper in a shopping bag-a reference to the adjoining Mall of America-while the lobby rug serves as a contemporary interpretation of the topography of the Minnesota lakes. Rounding out the space is a beehive-like seating arrangement that is suspended off the ground.
The hotel’s 500 fashion-inspired guestrooms come in three styles. The 29 “Mansion House” suites feature a clubby aura, while 54 “Naturally Cool” business-class rooms boast natural wood flooring and metal accents. In addition, 417 “Urban” standard guestrooms convey a modern edge thanks to splashes of color. Guests also have access to the Minnesota-inspired FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar, a fitness center with indoor pool, and 26,300 square feet of meeting and event space. The hotel will seek LEED certification upon completion.
