A "Hilton Hotel" With A Twist

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

07 Jul 2006 09:23 AM

Most people know her simply as Paris's sister. Perhaps, that's one of the reasons Nicky Hilton is launching a new business venture that will be named after herself: "Nicky O" Hotels. Yes, it's true. The Hilton heiress is getting into the hotel business. But, as you can tell by the name, she will not be following in her family's footsteps. Rather, her venture will focus on creating hip hotels for the fashionably aware.

The 22-year-old, self-professed fashionista plans to put her own touch on two existing buildings on Miami's famed Ocean Boulevard to create the "Nicky O" Hotel, set to open in November. "I've been around hotels my whole life, and I know a good hotel when I see one." Hilton recently told PEOPLE magazine.

In addition to the Miami property, Hilton also plans to grace Chicago's historic Printer's Row with one of her hotels. "Miami will definitely be a party destination, and Chicago will be a little more calm," she says.

Although Hilton comes from a family of hoteliers, she says her new project will be in no way associated with the Hilton name. And don't look for it to be associated with the Hilton style either. Forget about the traditional Hilton amenities and the service that attracts families and business travelers... "Nicky O" is looking to target "the young, the rich, and the sexy."

In fact, Hilton says she considers her establishments more boutique/condo than hotel. Look for her 94-room buildings to feature unique touches including "entertainment news tickers in the elevators, a signature scent and rooms deigned by friends - including $5,000-a-night penthouse by clothing designer Roberto Cavalli." In addition, "Nicky O" in Miami will include a giant chandelier and lots of marble in its lobby. The budding hotel owner describes the site as: "beautiful and hot."

However, work on the projects is still far from complete. Hilton tells PEOPLE she is working around the clock to get the hotels ready to open. "This is my summer," she says of her latest endeavor.

Learn more about Michele Cheplic

Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism.

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