Gemstone Hotels & Resorts to Manage Copley Square Hotel

Officials of Gemstone Hotels & Resorts, a full-service hotel management company that specializes in luxury and upscale urban hotels and resorts, announced the company has assumed management of the storied Copley Square Hotel in Boston. Originally built in 1912, the boutique urban hotel recently completed a nearly $20 million renovation that completely restored and updated the iconic property.

“The Copley has been a fixture on Copley Square for a century,” said Thomas Prins, Gemstone principal. “The addition of Gemstone’s expertise in operating unique, upscale urban hotels, combined with the physical enhancements, will make a significant difference going forward and allow us to create exceptional experiences for our guests.”

The 143-room hotel is an historic landmark, but is new throughout. Recently completed renovations include infrastructure improvements, such as new elevators and HVAC, a total makeover of the guest rooms, food and beverage facilities and all of the public spaces. Yet, the historic property still retains the iconic boutique hotel’s special character.

“The Copley is the third property added to our portfolio in the past five months and is emblematic of the type of property we seek to manage or acquire,” said Jeff McIntyre, Gemstone principal. “The hotel has a number of natural advantages we intend to more fully leverage, including its convenience to entertainment and sports venues, meeting and convention facilities, retail and other outlets. We also bring a passion for food and beverage opportunities, which we will be infusing into the existing outlets. Repositioning and re-inventing hotels by adding value and memorable experiences for guests and higher returns for owners is what we have demonstrated that we do best.”

The luxury hotel offers a number of value-added complimentary amenities and services, including Wine Down Hour, a nightly wine-tasting in the lobby lounge; morning coffee and seasonal afternoon beverage service in the lobby; twice-daily housekeeping service, and “Intuition Specialists” who are trained to anticipate and fulfill individual guest needs. The Copley offers three dining/food and beverage options: XHALE, a unique and fun dining experience featuring local flavors and character; Minibar, an upscale martini bar offering inspired appetizers; and Storyville, a gathering place that traces its roots back to the legendary jazz club opened in the hotel in 1948.

The hotel has hosted some of the world’s most noted names and personalities: President William McKinley, Babe Ruth, Ted Williams, Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald and Duke Ellington, to name a few. Additional information about the hotel may be found atwww.copleysquarehotel.com&esheet=50167363&lan=en-US&anchor=www.copleysquarehotel.com&index=1&md5=9e6c41459380723ff331c6bc4f617794"> www.copleysquarehotel.com.
(2.15.12)