Story & photography by David L. Taylor

Check into the new Renaissance Arts Hotel, located at the epicenter of the emerging and culturally rich Warehouse/Arts district of New Orleans. A lively, dynamic destination for business and pleasure travelers, it’s also a stimulating haven for art lovers. This converted furniture warehouse, which dates back to 1910, captures the colorful spirit of New Orleans as it showcases the artwork of local and regional artisans. Three spectacular Dale Chihuly chandeliers, commissioned exclusively for the hotel and the works by New Orleans-based artists Mitchell Gaudet, Lin Emery and Luis Cruz Azaceta, greet visitors upon their entrance to the hotel. The hotel’s commitment to fine art is apparent from nearly every vantage point. The Renaissance Arts Hotel also boasts two light-filled internal sculpture gardens, a four-story, glass-enclosed atrium lobby and the world-class, Arthur Roger Gallery on Tchoupitoulas displayed in its lobby. The signature modern flair and the use of fine art continue into the loft-like stylish, bright and inviting guest rooms. The hotel uniquely captures the energy and excitement of New Orleans as it complements galleries and specialty boutiques in the neighborhood.

The Renaissance Arts Hotel also features an impressive venue for satisfying the New Orleans obsession with fine dining. At La Côte Brasserie, the convergence of two award-winning master chefs, Richard "Bingo" Starr and René Bajeux, is more than just a recipe for success. Seasonal and regional seafood specialties are expertly presented in a style that combines traditional French cooking with contemporary Louisiana cuisine. The open, airy dining room is , filled with an air of excitement and anticipation. At the whimsical La Côte Brasserie the "buzz" is seductive and achieved for all the right reasons.

Style meets substance, in a very trendy neighborhood, at the Renaissance Arts Hotel. Guests are likely to sense that they are in the midst of a very special "happening." The highly attentive staff meets the needs of the most demanding business travelers in a professional manner, and enthusiastically answers the inquires of the most curious travelers. Of the many fine reasons to visit the Renaissance Arts Hotel -- the brilliant art works, intriguing architecture, roof top pool, well-appointed gym, La Côte Brasserie and Arthur Roger Gallery on Tchoupitoulas --the most compelling reason is quite simple. It all works! The energized "new" New Orleans feeling at the Renaissance Arts is contagious and full of the town’s famous celebratory élan. For more information visit the Renaissance Arts Hotel online.