W Hotels To Break Ground in Russia

Scheduled to open in mid 2008, W St. Petersburg represents a rare development in the main historic area of one of Russia's most vibrant and architecturally stunning cities. This is the first W to be announced in Eastern Europe and marks another major step in W Hotel's global expansion. With exterior architecture that will recall St. Petersburg's history, and timeless yet contemporary interiors, the W St. Petersburg will be yet another addition to the five W hotels announced for the brand in the Europe, Africa & Middle East region: Barcelona, Athens, Istanbul, Dubai and Doha.

The new W St. Petersburg will make its home south of the Neva River in the historic center of St. Petersburg, with many of the city's cathedrals, museums and palaces accessible by foot. The hotel will be located on Voznesensky Prospect, between St. Isaac's Square and the Admiralty, just a stone's throw from the lavish Winter Palace which houses the world famous Hermitage Museum. From their rooms, hotel guests will also enjoy spectacular views of the landmark gold-domed St. Isaac's Cathedral.

Award-winning designers Antonio Citterio & Partners have been chosen to create an environment at the W St. Petersburg that evolves the W brand in a way that incorporates the modern elements of the brand with to the richness of the city around it. As with the W brand's existing hotels, the W St. Petersburg will feature all of W's signature design elements, including the W Living Room, which is the heart of the hotel and creates a vibrant atmosphere for out of town guests as well as for the sophisticated local business and social community. In addition, the hotel will feature a restaurant and a rooftop bar with spectacular views of this historic city.

"St. Petersburg is a fascinating destination full of art, culture, history and romance," said Ross Klein, President of Starwood's Luxury Brand Group. "The ongoing regeneration of St. Petersburg combines the culture and history of Russia's past with the energy and style of the country's future, making this one of the most intriguing destinations in the world and a perfect fit for W.'

"St. Petersburg aligns perfectly with W's rapidly expanding portfolio of landmark projects in our region, adding another great destination for our customer wherever and whenever they travel,' said Roeland Vos, President of Starwood Hotels and Resorts, Europe, Africa & Middle East.

The W St. Petersburg will have approximately 135 rooms, including suites. Guests will indulge in the W signature beds with feather-top mattresses, 350 thread-count Egyptian cotton sheets and goose down comforters. They will also be treated to Whatever/Whenever service, the hotel's 24-hour concierge that can provide whatever guests want (from a pair of running shoes to private jet service), whenever they want it.