A guest room at the newly debuted L7 Chicago by Lotte hotel
Lotte Hotels and Resorts, South Korea’s largest hotel group, has just introduced its vibrant, lifestyle-centric L7 brand to the United States for the first time—in Chicago. The grand opening of L7 Chicago by Lotte took place June 11 at 225 N. Wabash Ave. in the Loop. Situated near the Chicago Riverwalk and the iconic Mag Mile, this new hotel features 191 guest rooms and 22 suites designed by the acclaimed firm AvroKo.
Blending Korean elegance and Midwestern charm, the hotel boasts unique wellness-focused amenities, complimentary Korean skincare products, a curated contemporary art program and the soon-to-open ground-floor restaurant, Perilla Korean American Steakhouse.
General manager Adam Gurgiolo notes, “The Korean-born L7 brand was pivotal in launching the concept of a ‘lifestyle’ hotel to the Asian hospitality market. Chicago is a natural choice for our first location outside of Asia, sharing L7’s lively personality and warm hospitality.”
Interior decor details in a L7 Chicago by Lotte suite
Merging Cultural Design and Art
L7 Chicago integrates South Korean heritage with Chicago’s vibrant urban culture. AvroKo’s design features the traditional Korean “Jogakbo” textile technique, visible in handcrafted patterns throughout the hotel. The light, soft, warm color palette is coupled with an intimate and peaceful atmosphere, with large window seats offering guests a serene retreat from the bustling city.
“The design offers guests a peaceful and comfortable setting away from the busyness of the city where they can rest and relax,” says Amy Leahy, L7 Chicago’s director of sales and marketing.
“L7 Chicago’s art program has been carefully curated to showcase meaningful works of art by Chicagoan, Korean and Korean American artists that bring a sense of Chicago’s unique spirits into the hotel,” Leahy says.
Art plays a significant role in the hotel’s ambiance, with works by local, Korean and Korean-American artists. A notable feature is an exterior mural by Chicago artist Liz Flores. The lobby and common spaces also showcase a rotating contemporary art program curated by Anna Cerniglia of Johalla Projects, adding movement and color to the space.
Art and design details in L7 Chicago by Lotte's foyer
Korean-Midwestern Hospitality
Guests are welcomed with a refreshing towel, a signature gesture of Korean hospitality. The inviting lobby, adorned with contemporary art and light oak finishes, leads to an expansive lounge area with two-story ceilings and seating. A full-service concierge team tailors to each guest’s stay, whether it comes to booking dinner reservations or providing shopping recommendations.
Skyline views from a L7 Chicago by Lotte guest room
Modern Amenities with a Wellness Focus
L7 Chicago offers a selection of amenities, including the “24/L7 Krave Station,” which provides rotating refreshments throughout the day. In-room dining features American and Korean classics, provided by chef Andrew Lim from Perilla Korean American Steakhouse. Rooms have light workout equipment and Korean skincare items, emphasizing the hotel’s wellness roots. Guests also have access to luxury beauty services through a partnership with Legendary Spa, offering treatments on-site and at nearby studios.
See also: The 14 Best Hotels In Chicago
Photography by: Photography courtesy of L7 Chicago by Lotte
