PHOTO: This rendering shows the view of Marker Waterfront Resort from the street. (All photos courtesy of Marker Waterfront Resort)
On Dec. 1, something new is coming to the Old Town district of Key West: The 96-room Marker Waterfront Resort, which has the distinction of being the first newbuild hotel to debut in Old Town in 20 years.
"We're a refreshing addition to Key West, and location is probably among the property's most distinguishable assets," said Tom Whitney, the hotel's general manager. The Marker is situated just a few blocks from Key West's main attractions on the edge of the historic seaport and features panoramic water views.
With its lush tropical landscaping, the resort will serve as guests' private oasis from the hustle and bustle of the city, said Whitney.
"As an independent hotel we're able to embrace the spirit of Key West as a destination by creating unique and memorable Key West experiences for our guests," he said.
PHOTO: Marker Waterfront Resort's lobby introduces the neutral, very Key West, design motif.
The resort, whose design inspiration comes from Key West itself, will utilize neutral tones that are enlivened by splashes of Tiffany blue and tropical finishes throughout.
Artwork throughout the property is sourced from local artists, including a potter and a sculptor, whose work pays homage to the destination.
Guestrooms, which measure 400 square feet and boast soaking tubs, will feature four categories: Marina, Pool, Garden and Old Town.
PHOTO: Poolside cocktail service, anyone?
The resort will also offer plenty of amenities for guests, including multiple pools with poolside cocktail service, onsite parking, a fitness center and free Wi-Fi.
Whitney said The Marker is partnering with a couple of local companies, including the Key West Legal Rum Distillery and Key West Aloe. "We're going to do some special things with the product," he said. Key West Aloe products will be used for bathroom amenities.
Cero Bodega, a restaurant and tequila bar, will serve California-Mexican inspired cuisine and will be open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Whitney said the resort expects to attract business from the Northeast corridor, including Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Washington, Baltimore and Atlanta. Chicago will be another key market. He added that The Marker will also appeal to European travelers, particularly from Germany and some of the Scandinavian countries. "I've seen a lot of these travelers on the streets of Key West this summer," he said.
The Marker will target a sophisticated luxury clientele, Whitney said. "Times have changed in Key West and it's becoming the spot where the luxury traveler is going," said Whitney. "There's whole renaissance going on here, and I think we're the flagship that's starting that renaissance."
The property was developed by The Singh Company, one of the most established developers in the Florida Keys region.
The Marker has begun accepting bookings, and Whitley said the property is already gearing up for Christmas and New Year's, a peak season in Key West.
PHOTO: Relaxing accomodations at Marker Waterfront Resort.
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