The Palmer House should be called The Peacock House

So, per my last post you know that I went to Chicago last weekend. We were going to stay Saturday night at The Palmer House, in the heart of downtown. While I have never been a guest at The Palmer House, I had been in their lobby/lounge several times over the course of my life since it is such a magnificent, historical landmark. But had no idea of their latest renovation/decor........

Potter Palmer opened the first Palmer House to the public on September 26, 1871. Thirteen days later, it was destroyed by The Great Chicago Fire. Undaunted by the destruction of his entire fortune, Palmer left for St. Louis immediately and negotiated a record loan - on his signature only - of $17 million. He began reconstructing his many properties and among them his most enthusiastic endeavor, the rebuilding of the Palmer House on a site across the street from the original. This location opened in November 1873. In 1925, having growing pains, the hotel was rebuilt on the same property. And thus, this third building still stands as the same hotel today. It was purchased in 1945 by Conrad N. Hilton.

So as my train approached the city, I called my Mom to find out what room they were in. My 3 year old nephew got on the phone and said, "Aunt Heather, there's peacocks in the hallway!" I didn't really know what he was talking about, but figured I would find out when I got there.......

And boy did I find out! I was in pure heaven!!!

The gorgeous brass peacock doors welcomed me into the building. I took a photo of the story behind them, and have shared it below:
This world renowned door, actually a piece of unusual real estate art, is one of three in creation called the "Peacock Doors". While the design reflects the majestic and mystical bird, the door actually pays homage to the famed "House of Peacock" - Chicago's historic and celebrated emporium of fine jewelry, fine china and imported gifts of silver and gold, founded by Elijah Peacock in 1837, Chicago's first incorporated business.

The House of Peacock in the Palmer House flourished throughout most of the 20th century under the leadership of C.D. Peacock (Charles Daniel), Elijah's son. The design is that of Louis Comfort Tiffany. Each of the three doors weigh more than a half-ton, and all three are valued at more than a million dollars.

This famed Peacock door is just the beginning. Step up into the historic splendor of the world renowned Palmer House lobby. See for yourself the results of one of the most comprehensive hotel restorations ever completed. This $170 million initiative has lovingly completed the mission: Return to Grandeur.........

Won't you join me, as I take you on my own personal tour of the Palmer House?

The Gorgeous Lobby

Elevator waiting area in the lobby. The peacock rugs down here are done in very earthy colors. Lots of luxurious gold and velvet.

As I stepped off the elevator on our floor (the 12th), I now saw what my nephew meant. The carpets on this floor are deep brown with beautiful jewel toned peacock feathers!

Every time we left the room, Cody would say he had to walk on the "spooky eyes" although I really don't think he was afraid of them.

Another design in the carpet.

Later in the evening, when we returned from dinner, I tried taking a self portrait while lying on the floor. I thought our hallway was secluded enough, but of course a man ended up walked by to get to his room and asked if I was okay. How embarrassing! Oh well, if you find me on Facebook you can see this photo of me.

Our room contained even more surprises for me - just look at this lovely bed! This color combo of black, white, sage green and deep red is very inspiring!

I love their new mod peacock emblem, embroidered onto these pillows.

They sure have thought of everything with there new theme - a photo of the peacock doors graced our black and white bathroom.

And lastly, here is some art work I found while wandering the halls.

What a great experience! I think from now on I will only want to stay at the Palmer House when in Chicago. It is so rich with history, and really gives you the true Chicago feeling. I will do another post sometime this week to tell about the other fun parts of our trip!