Sheraton Hotels & Resorts announced it has embarked on a $45 million renovation of the Sheraton New Orleans Hotel, resulting in a floor-to-ceiling transformation of the hotel’s 1,100 guest rooms and suites, Sheraton Club Lounge, state-of-the-art meeting facilities and lobby.  Slated for completion in 2013, the renovation is part of an ongoing effort to enhance Sheraton hotels across the globe, following the recently completed $6 billion brand-wide revitalization.

“The comprehensive renovation to the Sheraton New Orleans underscores our commitment to attracting an even larger segment of the meetings and convention business in this vibrant city,” said Denise Coll, President of the North America Division for Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. “New Orleans’ indomitable spirit and historic charm have made the city one of the nation’s leading tourism destinations, as well as a top choice for meeting planners.”

The highlight of the refurbished lobby will be the brand’s Link@Sheraton(R) experienced with Microsoft(R) - the signature social hub where travelers can stay connected with instant access to information and technology for work, leisure and social networking. This active, yet relaxing space will be equipped with comfortable new seating, new carpeting, lighting, water feature, wireless connectivity and direct access to the hotel’s Starbucks coffee shop and Pelican Bar. Other improvements to the lobby include the recent installation of high-speed efficiency elevators and new revolving doors.

Reminiscent of an authentic French Quarter courtyard, the Pelican Bar at the Sheraton New Orleans will provide an inviting, revitalized space where guests can relax and enjoy one of the city’s most stunning views. Overlooking the streetcars on Canal Street, Pelican Bar will create a warm ambience with new gas lamps and wall sconces, new bar seating, communal tables and intimate group seating, all-new flooring and tile mosaics along the Canal Street windows. Renovations on the bar are expected to be completed in September 2012.

The hotel’s sought-after meeting and event facilities are also in the midst of substantial improvements. The recent renovations to the Waterbury and Napoleon Ballrooms will be followed by new carpeting, wall coverings, lighting and new furnishings in the Grand Ballroom and Grand Ballroom pre-function space.

Spectacular views of the Mississippi and the city are available from the hotel’s executive suites on floors 9-49, and from the Governor’s suites on floors 48-49. All guestrooms and suites will be fully renovated and furnished with an oversized work desk, custom-designed ergonomic chair, high-speed Internet, LCD flat panel television, MP3 docking station and the all-white Sheraton Sweet Sleeper(R) bed, designed to meet AAA’s Five Diamond Award(R) criteria. Bathrooms will boast all-new vanities, backlit mirrors and a collage of local artwork.

Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the Mississippi River in the Sheraton Club lounge - the perfect spot to enjoy upgraded amenities, as well as complimentary breakfast, beverages and evening hors d’oeuvres. Renovations to the lounge will include new carpeting, wall coverings, furniture and lighting.

Sheraton New Orleans Hotel recently completed the transformation of its fitness facility to offer Sheraton Fitness programmed by Core Performance(TM), the brand’s revolutionary new health and fitness program designed exclusively for Sheraton guests through its partner Core Performance.