In a recent interview with A.J. Williams, General Manager of the new Renaissance Philadelphia Downtown, we discussed the inspiration behind the property, the hotel?s atmosphere, design and décor, two top-tier restaurants and bars onsite, and much more.
Tell me a little bit about the history and inspiration behind the Renaissance Philadelphia Downtown.

History is all around the Renaissance Philadelphia Downtown Hotel, situated in Philadelphia?s Old City. With this rich history as our backdrop, the hotel brings fresh air to the historic neighborhood. From playful portraits of Benjamin Franklin?s five mistresses, created with pixelated $100 bills, to pop-art portraits of famous Philadelphians, the hotel takes a cheeky approach to honoring the city?s cultural history.
How would you describe the atmosphere and design of the hotel"

From the moment guests arrive to the Renaissance Philadelphia Downtown Hotel, they are met by thoughtful design that brings together the old and new of Philadelphia. For instance, upon entering the hotel, you are guided through The Alley, inspired by the city?s famed Elfreth?s Alley, the nation?s oldest continuously inhabited residential street and the backbone of colonial Philadelphia. The Alley is anchored by a blackened steel staircase and a 100-foot long graffiti wall by local artist Dan Murphy. Right there, we?ve set the stage for unexpected design elements which is carried throughout the guestrooms, which feature Ben Franklin portraits t...