The waiting list is long, there is only one room, only 50 bookings per year are possible and the location is actually a secret: welcome to the most exclusive hotel in Detroit! We’re talking about The1RoomHotel, invented by marketing genius Doug Schwartz. But what can guests really expect on site?
Privacy in the penthouse
You can’t really say “place” either. Because the exact location of the beautifully furnished penthouse is a secret. Those who are lucky enough to secure a stay will only receive the exact address after booking. What is known, however, is that it is a penthouse measuring around 300 square meters. It is roughly located in Corktown, the oldest neighborhood in Detroit. If you want to go on a search, look for a house in the heart of the neighborhood that was built in 1901 and last occupied in 1950.
Okay, the location is not quite so secret. The words “Blanco Building” on the website and the reference to Michigan Avenue should be enough to find the building. Incidentally, there are some fairly well-known buildings in the immediate vicinity. These include The Michigan Central Train Station and the old Tiger Stadium. In 2020, Schwartz ( not the screenwriter, by the way) finally bought the Blanco Building and began renovating the penthouse.
Cozy shelter
At first glance, the possibly most exclusive hotel in Detroit doesn’t actually have much more to offer than “just” a penthouse. But a second glance reveals just how much taste has gone into The1RoomHotel. The interior pays tribute to its past. Stucco work was restored to its original state. Even the floor from the early 20th century and the doors now shine in new splendor.
In terms of design, guests can look forward to vintage furniture and vintage-inspired items. A strong color palette, from which petrol stands out in particular, ensures a cosy atmosphere. The amenities (allegedly from La Bottega) and all other details were carefully selected. From the fluffy bathrobes and slippers to the small library full of high-quality illustrated books from Taschen Verlag, guests will want for nothing. We want to offer them enough space to live, work and relax.
Hybrid Hospitality
This leads us straight to the layout of the hotel. Or penthouses. This includes a large suite with bathroom and walk-in closet under three-meter-high ceilings. There is also space for yoga and meditation, an infrared sauna and a fully equipped kitchen. Another bedroom, a chill room, a living room and a podcast area make The1RoomHotel perfect. Oh, there are also two bathtubs, originally with tiger claw feet, and a rooftop terrace.
But what is the difference between a penthouse and an AirBnB? What makes it a hotel in Detroit? Schwartz calls his concept Hybrid Hospitality. He and his team want to create unforgettable memories. This also means that you can buy everything you see in the penthouse. The company has also teamed up with lifestyle partners. They help the concierge to make wishes come true. “When you choose to stay with us, you’re not just booking a room; you’re embarking on a unique journey,” is the promise. This even goes so far that the surrounding restaurants (which can be viewed in the field book) have already reserved a place for guests of The1RoomHotel.
Convinced? Us too! But you can’t just book the hotel in Detroit like that. There are only 50 slots per year, the minimum stay is 2 nights. At the weekend (including Friday) you pay $ 1,950 per night, during the week $ 1,800. It is not possible to book for longer than four nights. Speaking of booking: You can do this on the website from January 15, 2024, but you need some kind of recommendation to do so. First you are put on the waiting list.
