Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1094881
PHASE II: LOBBY AND MEETING SPACES, GREATROOM Upon entering the hotel's spacious lobby, guests will be greeted at the front desk kiosks by team members who imbue the ambiance with Southern Hospitality and seamlessly handle their check in. Enhancing a sense of place upon arrival, materials such as Post Oak end-tables and South Texas Limestone brick are being used. Once a guest is checked in, they can't help but be awed by the spectacular view of Lake Carolyn, framed in such a way that one might think it's a painting. The hotel's more than 27,000 sq. ft. of indoor-outdoor meeting spaces comprise 12 event rooms, including 550-sq. ft. board rooms and a more than 10,000-sq. ft. ballroom that accommodates groups of 25 up to 1,000 guests. Ample pre-function space includes the outdoor Lakeside Terrace situated along Lake Carolyn to enhance the variety and flexibility for a group's needs. The materials used throughout the hotel will patina over time and become more refined as they age, such as wood stools and leather details. The Greatroom, located on the lobby level , will be a highlight and hub of activity for guests. Accommodating up to 75 in the Greatroom, 50 in the Greatroom Bar and 16 in the Private Dining Room, there is a space to fit myriad guest needs from morning until night. From ambiance and technology to thoughtful hosting and food and beverage menus to signage, these elements take the spaces from sunrise to well into the late hours for guests' needs. The spaces will be welcoming and bright in the morning and segue to low lighting and candles in the evening when the bar becomes abuzz. Appropriate music for every meal or meeting time will enhance the environment and discreet plug-ins and outlets allow guests to mix, mingle and work. THE RESORT AT GARDEN OF THE GODS RECEIVES FOUR DIAMONDS Luxury Resort Honored With Prestigious Award for the First Time Garden of the Gods Collection, Colorado Springs' luxury resort and a Gemstone Collection property, has been honored with its first designation as a AAA Four Diamondproperty. Scott Marble, interim general manager for the luxury resort, made the announcement. "Garden of the Gods Collection has seen a complete transformation through our owners' vision and has been brought to life by the dedication and tireless work of our staff," said Mr. Marble. "We are humbled and honored to receive this award." Perched atop a mesa in Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods Collection (GOG) showcases expansive vistas of the Rocky Mountains, snow-capped Pikes Peak and the awe-inspiring National Natural Landmark, Garden of the Gods Park, featuring astonishing views of vertical rock formations dating back 250 million years. The exclusive resort offers 56 luxurious guest rooms, 12 of which are suites, featuring private balconies or patios, in-room fireplaces and large pow- der rooms and closets. Recently introduced cottages offer a new resi- dential experience which can be enjoyed as one-, two- and three-bed- room luxury retreats. Each unique in size and amenities, the cottages feature in-suite and parlor fireplaces; lavish bathrooms and spacious outdoor patios. Guests enjoy golfing at GOG's 27-hole championship Kissing Camels course; tennis on two outdoor and four state-of-the-art indoor courts; an adults-only infinity pool ranked among the top five best hotel pools in the country by USA Today, and outdoor pools for families; acclaimed dining offerings; and a new model of holistic healthcare delivery at Strata Integrated Wellness Spa, celebrating its grand opening this Fall. B M & T November/December 2018 www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 9