Article via The Buffalo News
By Jonathan D. Epstein
Ellicott Development Co.’s historic Giacomo Hotel in Niagara Falls is now part of the Ascend Hotel Collection, the independent hotel brand of global hospitality giant Choice Hotels International.
The 39-room boutique luxury hotel, located within a larger 20-story art deco building on First Street that dates to 1929, was approved for inclusion in Choice’s growing international portfolio of upscale hotel properties. That enables it to benefit from Choice’s global reach and reservations system, as well as Choice’s rewards program, while maintaining the individuality and character that distinguishes it from other properties.
Choice, a publicly traded lodging company, has more than 6,300 hotels franchised in more than 35 countries and territories, with more than 500,000 rooms under such brands as Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Sleep Inn, Quality Inn, Clarion Inn, MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, Econo Lodge and Rodeway Inn.
“We couldn’t be more excited to become part of the Ascend Hotel Collection and begin our affiliation with other like-minded and distinctive boutique properties,” said Ellicott CEO William Paladino. “The ability to retain our local character, style, flavor and the guest experience we offer with the backing of the Choice Hotels and Ascend Hotel Collection reservations system and customer services will solidify our position as a premier destination hotel in Niagara Falls.”
Originally called the United Office Building, the Giacomo is one of the tallest structures in downtown Niagara Falls. It was built using art deco designs and a “Mayan revival” theme, and was listed on both the New York State and National Registers of Historic Places in 2006.
The mixed-use building was renamed in 2010, and also includes 24 upscale residential apartments. Hotel accommodations range from regular hotel rooms with European decor to larger suites, and guests can choose options with a hot tub or fireplace or both. The hotel also serves chocolate truffles and fresh-baked cookies every night, and features a concierge butler service and the Sky View Lounge on the 19th floor.
Launched in 2008, the Ascend Collection is a network of otherwise independent and unique hotels that reflect the character of their location. The system has been among the fastest-growing brands among upscale hotels, tripling in size since 2010.
“We are so proud to have the Giacomo join the portfolio as it offers guests the perfect mix of local charm and hospitality in a world class travel destination,” said Neil Cantor, head of the Ascend Hotel Collection.
