THE PLAZA, a member of the Hanwha Hotels & Resorts brand, will join Autograph Collection Hotels, Marriott International’s exclusive portfolio of hotels recognized for celebrating bold individuality. The strategic alliance will become effective in early 2016.
By joining Autograph Collection Hotels, THE PLAZA will have an opportunity to leverage the company’s recognized global sales and marketing channels, Marriott Rewards customer loyalty program, and its management and franchise expertise.
“We are delighted that the partnership will bring together Autograph Collection and Marriott International’s strength in global marketing and sales with THE PLAZA’s local brand and heritage,” said Shim Kyung Seob, CEO of Hanwha Hotels & Resorts. “This is an important milestone as the hotel celebrates its 40th anniversary next year.”
THE PLAZA is located in the center of Korea’s historical district, nearby sites including Deoksugung Palace, Gyeongbokgung Palace and Sungnyemun Gate. Seoul’s 600-year history and rich culture is an essential part of THE PLAZA’S guest experience and design aesthetic. The hotel is located across from City Hall and Seoul Plaza and is close to important financial institutions and corporations.
“Autograph Collection is a one-of-a-kind ensemble of independent hotels that we are fast expanding in Asia,” commented Craig S. Smith, President and Managing Director, Marriott International, Asia-Pacific. “THE PLAZA, with its rich heritage and special location as well as its quality service, will enable travelers to experience the charm of the city in style, truly fitting the brand promise of the Autograph Collection.”
THE PLAZA appointed Italian architect and designer Guido Ciompi in its 2010 renovation project to re-create the décor and furniture of the 410 rooms, which come in a variety of designs and color schemes. All guestrooms feature eco-friendly design materials, free wired and wireless internet access and a smart touchpad to control room temperature, lighting and other amenities in the rooms, adding convenience to guests.
THE PLAZA, which has hosted the G20 Seoul summit and Nuclear Security Summit in the past, is a symbol of history and grandeur with nine banquet halls that can accommodate up to 600 guests. The Grand Ballroom, steeped in rich design, has a capacity of 450 and is ideal for large-scale events and weddings. Located on the hotel’s top floor, the Xystum House offers panoramic views of Seoul through its full-length windows and can be customized for a variety of private events.
To highlight the culinary expertise for which Autograph Collection has become known, restaurants and bars at THE PLAZA have appointed a team of regional chefs and taken inspiration from a wide array of international restaurants. Hotel restaurants include TAOYUEN, a Chinese restaurant featuring modern Shanghai-style cooking; MURASAKI, a Japanese restaurant that combines modern techniques with simple and casual Neoclassic Kaiseki; and TUSCANY, an Italian restaurant helmed by Michelin-star head chef Maurizio Ceccato.
