Hotel Nia Receives Silicon Valley Structures Awards: Best Hospitality Project

BLOG POST

09.27.2018

As profiled in Silicon Valley Business Journal:

When building out Hotel Nia in Menlo Park, Ensemble Real Estate Solutions and Investments wanted to create an escape of sorts for guests in the center of bustling Silicon Valley.

“The name itself, Nia, is Gaelic for ‘bright light’ or ‘beacon,’ ” said Conrad Garner, Ensemble’s senior vice president of development. “So our goal was to create a refined, yet relaxed, area with an atmosphere focused on mind inspiring and mind clearing.”

Yet it is subtly designed for its largely targeted business guests in that it offers wired outdoor settings, “encouraging people to go outside and work or have a conversation or meeting.”

Hotel Nia is part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection Hotels’ portfolio of more than 135 independent hotels that each have their own unique local flair. The hotel had been part of Bohannon Development’s Menlo Gateway Plan, which took a decade to get entitled.

The hotel’s proximity to Facebook was a draw for Ensemble.

“Being next to Facebook is a significant part of why we’re there,” said Ed Proenza, chief investment officer of hotels for Ensemble. “We’re aiming to be a go-to hotel for corporate visitors, but also a great option for Silicon Valley residents looking for a luxury weekend staycation.”