Chicago’s hotel scene perfectly balances artistic vision with luxurious comfort, offering unique stays for design enthusiasts. From boutique properties to architectural masterpieces, these 10 design hotels showcase the city’s commitment to sophisticated hospitality.
1. Nobu Hotel Chicago
Nobu Hotel Chicago represents a perfect fusion of Japanese minimalism and urban sophistication in the heart of the West Loop. The hotel’s interior features natural materials, custom furniture, and artwork that pays homage to Japanese design principles while maintaining a contemporary edge.
Its signature restaurant, helmed by celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa, mirrors the hotel’s aesthetic with its elegant dining space and world-class cuisine. The rooms showcase floor-to-ceiling windows offering spectacular city views, complemented by teak soaking tubs and custom-designed beds. The rooftop lounge provides an intimate setting with its zen-inspired garden and striking skyline vistas.
2. Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile
Standing as a sculptural glass prism designed by French architect Jean-Paul Viguier, the Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile is an architectural marvel in the Gold Coast neighborhood. The hotel’s dramatic exterior is matched by its sophisticated interior, which blends French elegance with modern American style.
Each room features custom-designed furniture and artwork celebrating both Chicago’s architectural heritage and French artistic traditions. The floor-to-ceiling windows frame stunning views of the city’s iconic skyline, while the lobby showcases rotating art exhibitions. The property’s distinctive triangular shape creates unique room layouts that maximize space and natural light.
3. Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Inspired by the grand hotels of Paris in the 1920s, the Waldorf Astoria Chicago is a masterpiece of elegant design and timeless luxury. The hotel’s distinctive exterior features a courtyard reminiscent of French château architecture, while the interior spaces showcase handcrafted finishes and custom furnishings.
Each guest room is appointed with fireplaces, private terraces, and marble bathrooms that epitomize sophisticated urban living. The spa area reflects a contemporary interpretation of classical design elements, featuring mosaic tiles and sculptural lighting fixtures. The hotel’s attention to detail extends to its carefully curated art collection and meticulously maintained gardens.
4. 21c Museum Hotel Chicago
As both a contemporary art museum and boutique hotel, 21c Museum Hotel Chicago offers a unique cultural experience in River North. The property features over 10,000 square feet of exhibition space displaying rotating contemporary art installations that engage and provoke. Guest rooms serve as personal galleries, with custom furnishings and original artwork creating an immersive artistic environment.
The hotel’s restaurant space doubles as an installation venue, where dining becomes part of the cultural experience. Design elements throughout the property challenge traditional hotel aesthetics while maintaining exceptional comfort standards.
5. Level Chicago Fulton Market
Level Chicago Fulton Market represents the pinnacle of modern urban design in the city’s trendy West Loop district. The property’s industrial-chic aesthetic pays homage to the neighborhood’s warehouse heritage while incorporating contemporary luxury elements. Floor-to-ceiling windows and open-concept layouts create bright, airy spaces that seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living.
The rooftop amenities showcase innovative design solutions for communal spaces, including infinity pools and outdoor lounges. Custom furniture and locally sourced artwork throughout the property reflect Chicago’s vibrant design community.
6. Luxury Retreat with Home Theater
This boutique property stands out for its innovative approach to entertainment-focused design. The centerpiece home theater features state-of-the-art technology integrated into a luxurious setting with custom leather seating and ambient lighting. Each suite showcases contemporary furnishings and smart home technology, creating an ultra-modern living experience.
The property’s common areas blend industrial elements with plush textures and warm lighting. Designer touches throughout include custom millwork and artisanal fixtures that create an atmosphere of sophisticated comfort.
7. Presidential Penthouses with the Best View – Cloud9 – 730
Perched high above the city, Cloud9 – 730 offers a masterclass in penthouse design with unparalleled attention to detail. The expansive floor plans maximize the dramatic city views through floor-to-ceiling windows, while custom furniture pieces create intimate spaces within the grand layout.
The interior design scheme incorporates luxurious materials including rare marbles, exotic woods, and premium textiles. Sophisticated lighting systems and smart home technology are seamlessly integrated into the design. The outdoor terraces feature carefully planned landscaping and lounge areas that extend the living space into the sky.
8. Duplex 3 Bed 2 Bath Apt Steps from Lincoln Square
This thoughtfully designed duplex combines modern amenities with classic Chicago architectural elements in the charming Lincoln Square neighborhood. The split-level layout creates distinct living zones while maintaining an open, flowing feel throughout the space. Original architectural details are preserved and highlighted through careful renovation and contemporary furnishings.
The property features custom storage solutions and multi-functional spaces that showcase smart urban design. Natural light floods the interior through strategically placed windows, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere.
9. Spacious Luxury Retreat 8 Bed Oasis with 6 Baths
This expansive property demonstrates how thoughtful design can create intimate spaces within a grand scale. The interior features multiple gathering areas, each with its own distinct design identity while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic throughout. Custom millwork and built-in features maximize the functionality of every space while adding architectural interest.
The design incorporates high-end finishes and materials that create a luxurious yet comfortable atmosphere. Designer lighting and carefully curated artwork complete the sophisticated ambiance of this urban oasis.
10. McCormick Place 5 Bed Family Unit with Pool Table and Optional Parking
This family-oriented property showcases how design can successfully balance functionality with style. The open-plan living areas feature flexible spaces that can be reconfigured for different uses while maintaining aesthetic appeal. The games area is thoughtfully integrated into the overall design scheme rather than feeling like an afterthought. High-end finishes and durable materials throughout demonstrate that family-friendly spaces can still be sophisticated. The property’s layout creates natural flow between different areas while providing private spaces for quiet retreat.
Chicago’s design hotels offer an impressive range of architectural styles and interior design approaches, from contemporary boutique properties to grand luxury establishments. Each property showcases unique characteristics while maintaining exceptional standards of comfort and service. Whether you’re seeking an art-filled experience, architectural significance, or modern luxury, these design-forward properties provide distinctive stays that celebrate Chicago’s rich design heritage while embracing contemporary trends.