 The building opened for business as a hotel on January 15 , 2015 . It is the first of what was planned to be twenty Virgin Hotels locations that operate under this business model . The renovation took longer than planned due to the building 's city landmark status , which required continuing coordination with the Commission on Chicago Landmarks . Original features that were retained include a 1920s oak cigar bar , brass elevator lobby doors and a tiled ceiling . The final layout of 250 rooms includes 40 single @-@ room suites and 2 penthouse suites . 40 rooms are pet friendly . 
