Gurnee hotel and apartment complex proposal moves forward
A new planned hotel and apartment complex in Gurnee is one step closer to opening now that the village's Board of Trustees approved a liquor license at a meeting Monday.
The property at 6161 W. Grand Ave. was previously operated as a Holiday Inn. The hotel, which was listed for sale in May 2024, was purchased by Khayat Enterprises, which closed on the property last month, according to Village Administrator Patrick Muetz.
After renovations, the restaurant and development company plans to reopen the development as the Ten Hotel, Convention Center and Residences. It will feature 32 one-bedroom apartments, 48 studio apartments and 105 hotel rooms. The property will also have two restaurants on-site, as well as a cocktail lounge.
Elliot Khayat, a managing partner at Khayat Enterprises, also holds liquor licenses for Primo Italian American Cuisine and Lola's Tacos & Tequila, both in Gurnee.
Muetz said that as the Holiday Inn location already had a liquor license, there was no need for the Village Board to amend the municipal code, adding that the licenses from the previous owners would transfer, if approved.
The board unanimously approved granting the development a Class 8 liquor license.
During the meeting, the board also voted to approve several transformational grants to local businesses as part of its Small Business Capital Investment Program.
The program started in 2021, and allowed for up to $10,000 to be given out in grants to small businesses within Gurnee. In the years since, the program has been updated and now has two categories of grants.
Impact grants now allow up to $20,000 to be dispersed per business. Gurnee also offers transformational grants, which allow businesses to apply for a 1:1 matching $50,000 grant. The grants can be used for capital improvements. Over the past four years, Gurnee has awarded grants to 56 businesses within the village.
This year, the board unanimously approved funding grants for three Gurnee hotels: Super 8, La Quinta Inn & Suites and Hampton Inn.
'Well-maintained hotel properties create a positive impression and guest experience for visitors to Gurnee,' Community Engagement Coordinator Matt Trujillo said.
With the grant funding, the Hampton Inn plans to mill and pave its parking lot, which will cost $177,800. La Quinta Inn & Suites plans to use the funding to help pay for a full façade renovation, including new signs and lights, which will cost $450,000.
Super 8 is planning a full roof replacement, a new front entrance with automatic double doors and the implementation of PTAC heaters and coolers in all of the hotel's 80 rooms, which will cost $195,000.
Each hotel was approved to receive $50,000 in grant funding.
To get more businesses participating in the grant program, the village is sending targeted mailings to the property owners in Gurnee's East Grand Corridor, according to Trujillo. He said that Gurnee is also reaching out to new qualifying businesses in the area.
'The part of our program that I like the best is that we go after people to give them money,' Mayor Tom Hood said. 'It's a unique concept, but it's a concept that makes us successful because throughout the many villages that I know, many programs like this fall flat on their face because they don't do that.'
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Chicago Tribune
03-06-2025
- Chicago Tribune
Gurnee hotel and apartment complex proposal moves forward
A new planned hotel and apartment complex in Gurnee is one step closer to opening now that the village's Board of Trustees approved a liquor license at a meeting Monday. The property at 6161 W. Grand Ave. was previously operated as a Holiday Inn. The hotel, which was listed for sale in May 2024, was purchased by Khayat Enterprises, which closed on the property last month, according to Village Administrator Patrick Muetz. After renovations, the restaurant and development company plans to reopen the development as the Ten Hotel, Convention Center and Residences. It will feature 32 one-bedroom apartments, 48 studio apartments and 105 hotel rooms. The property will also have two restaurants on-site, as well as a cocktail lounge. Elliot Khayat, a managing partner at Khayat Enterprises, also holds liquor licenses for Primo Italian American Cuisine and Lola's Tacos & Tequila, both in Gurnee. Muetz said that as the Holiday Inn location already had a liquor license, there was no need for the Village Board to amend the municipal code, adding that the licenses from the previous owners would transfer, if approved. The board unanimously approved granting the development a Class 8 liquor license. During the meeting, the board also voted to approve several transformational grants to local businesses as part of its Small Business Capital Investment Program. The program started in 2021, and allowed for up to $10,000 to be given out in grants to small businesses within Gurnee. In the years since, the program has been updated and now has two categories of grants. Impact grants now allow up to $20,000 to be dispersed per business. Gurnee also offers transformational grants, which allow businesses to apply for a 1:1 matching $50,000 grant. The grants can be used for capital improvements. Over the past four years, Gurnee has awarded grants to 56 businesses within the village. This year, the board unanimously approved funding grants for three Gurnee hotels: Super 8, La Quinta Inn & Suites and Hampton Inn. 'Well-maintained hotel properties create a positive impression and guest experience for visitors to Gurnee,' Community Engagement Coordinator Matt Trujillo said. With the grant funding, the Hampton Inn plans to mill and pave its parking lot, which will cost $177,800. La Quinta Inn & Suites plans to use the funding to help pay for a full façade renovation, including new signs and lights, which will cost $450,000. Super 8 is planning a full roof replacement, a new front entrance with automatic double doors and the implementation of PTAC heaters and coolers in all of the hotel's 80 rooms, which will cost $195,000. Each hotel was approved to receive $50,000 in grant funding. To get more businesses participating in the grant program, the village is sending targeted mailings to the property owners in Gurnee's East Grand Corridor, according to Trujillo. He said that Gurnee is also reaching out to new qualifying businesses in the area. 'The part of our program that I like the best is that we go after people to give them money,' Mayor Tom Hood said. 'It's a unique concept, but it's a concept that makes us successful because throughout the many villages that I know, many programs like this fall flat on their face because they don't do that.'
Skift
15-05-2025
- Skift
Inside Wyndham's Plan to Launch 100 Super 8 Hotels Across Saudi
We pointed out last year the lack of affordable hotels being built in Saudi Arabia. Wyndham wants to change that with 100 Super 8s in 10 years. Wyndham this week announced a plan to open 100 new hotels in Saudi Arabia in the next 10 years. All will be under the group's Super 8 brand, one of the most budget-friendly options in its portfolio, and a contrast to the string of luxury brands Saudi has signed in recent years. "I've always been saying that in order for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to meet its numbers and its targets and in order to provide a holistic hospitality model, it has to be inclusive, not exclusive," Wyndham's EMEA President Dimitris Manikis told Skift. According to Knight Frank, only 6% of Saudi's hotel pipeline is in the economy and midscale segments. Manikis called the plan a natural part of Saudi's evolution. "It's happening because the hospitality industry in the kingdom is going full cycle. It started with luxury. It's going into branded residences. It is going into the economy and the premium economy, where we come in. And it will do exactly what I've been saying all along. It will make travel possible for all." In May 2024, Saudi's tourism authority told Skift just 20% of the kingdom's eventual hotel supply would be four-star and above. What's the Timeline? The first Super 8 will open sometime next year, with Saudi hotel operator Le Park Concord running all the properties under a franchising deal. While 100 hotels is the goal, Manikis said just three hotels are being discussed right now. "At the moment, [Le Park Concord] is negotiating at least two or three," he explained. "And as they go along, the number will increase. Remember, the most important thing for me at this point is the proof of concept. The moment you will have the first two or three, and your proof of concept, again, the sky's the limit." Manikis expects a slow start after next year's debut, but then an acceleration as more people take notice. "You will see a phased approach and more traction as the years go by. So you'll see in the beginning, less growth. Because once we get the traction and once you prove the thesis and your hypothesis, you will see more coming every year. It's all about the proof of the hypothesis." Where Will They Be? The properties will be all over, including Riyadh, Jeddah, Makkah, Madinah, Al Khobar/Dammam, and surrounding areas. They will be placed wherever the most infrastructure development is happening, including highways that connect developed parts of the country. Manikis said: "Wherever the need is, and wherever there is an opportunity, as the infrastructure develops across the kingdom, this is where we're going to be focusing on developing those Super 8s." Around 30% of the hotels will be conversions of existing hotels and 70% will be new builds, Manikis explained. In particular, Wyndham sees a chance to stitch together Saudi's many unregulated hotels using the Super 8 brand. Unlicensed hotels are particularly prevalent in Saudi's holy cities, which drive the greatest tourism numbers. At the start of 2023, authorities announced they had closed more than 300 hotels and furnished apartments in Makkah and Medina for failing to comply with standards. "My belief is when people, owners will start seeing the success and the ease to convert of those Super 8s, I bet you there's gonna be a lot of demand for those independent, smaller properties to get the right funding and convert their brand to a Super 8, or convert the hotel to a Super 8 brand," Manikis said. What About Funding? Unlike most large-scale hotel signings you see in Saudi, Wyndham's is being done without public sector funding. While building a Super 8 is cheaper relative to other brands, when done en masse, the costs will add up. Manikis wouldn't give a price tag for 100 potential hotels, but said Le Park Concord will be announcing a fund in the coming days. "They're putting together a real estate fund, a REIT, in order to support the development of those Super 8s. So they have the buckets, they have the funders, they have the plan." Not only is Wyndham bucking the trend by seeking private investment, Manikis said he's purposefully steering away from government funds. He said: "At the moment, the government is actually limiting its exposure from a funding perspective. So, while it has the tick of the box from the government, we don't depend, or our partners do not depend on the government funding. They have their own source of funding. And actually, to be fair, that's a business model that has more longevity and validity because it's all investor-driven."
Yahoo
15-05-2025
- Yahoo
12 best cafes for work freelance & study in Singapore – Central, East & North
No space at home, too noisy at school, McDonald's too messy. Where is the hustling freelancer or last-minute exam crammer supposed to go? Why, any of these for work and study, of course. We scoured the island for the ultimate laptop-friendly spots to keep your productivity soaring. From cosy Central hideouts to breezy East gems and serene North-East nooks, our 12 handpicked cafes deliver fast Wi-Fi, comfy seats, killer coffee and good food. Whether you're a freelancer, student or digital nomad, grab your laptop and let's get things done! Tucked in the sleek Holiday Inn Little India, Soul Brew offers a modern, hotel-lobby vibe perfect for professionals craving a polished workspace. Its minimalist design, accented by warm lighting, creates a serene escape from the bustle of Farrer Park. Known for its range of healthy choices, this work cafe serves nutrient-packed juices and hearty brunch dishes that fuel long work sessions. With fast Wi-Fi and ample sockets, it's a haven for entrepreneurs and freelancers. The Cold-Pressed Juices (S$6.50) and Smoked Chicken Wrap (S$11.25) are very popular, while the Flat White (S$4.50/S$5/S$6.50) is a crowd-pleaser. They even have Fresh Whole Fruit (S$2). Wi-Fi & Sockets: Free, reliable Wi-Fi; power sockets at most seats. Why It's Great: Sleek hotel setting, healthy menu and fast Wi-Fi make it ideal for professional work sessions. 10 Farrer Park Station Rd, Lobby Level, Holiday Inn Singapore, Singapore 217564 +65 6824 8888 Daily: 8am–9pm | Hidden within a Bukit Timah condo, The Ritual Cafe is a serene sanctuary for remote workers seeking peace away from Singapore's chaos. Its wood-accented, minimalist interior exudes warmth, with plush seats fostering comfort for long sessions. The Ritual Cafe is known for wholesome fresh bakes, acai bowls and coffee as well as vegan and gluten-free menu. The gluten-free Spicy Chicken (S$18) with spicy homemade tomato sauce, boneless chicken leg, penne and cheese is mouthwatering! Hungry workaholics can go for the The Ritual Big Breakfast (S$25) of sourdough, eggs-of-your-choice, housemade bacon, lamb or pork sausage and tomato relish. It's available in a vegetarian version, too. Their (S$9), available in Pineapple & Peach and Passionfruit flavours, goes well on its own or paired. Wi-Fi & Sockets: Free, reliable Wi-Fi; ample power sockets. Why It's Great: Quiet, cosy and health-focused, it's perfect for uninterrupted work. 383 Bukit Timah Road, #01-09B, Singapore 259727 +65 6208 7496 Daily: 8am – 6.30pm | | Fame Coffee in Outram Park makes our list of the best cafes for work and study by blending retro charm with modern work needs, its diner-style interior creating a vibrant yet cosy workspace. Known for bold coffee blends and indulgent treats, it's a freelancer's delight. The Iced Mocha (S$6.50) pairs perfectly with Salted Caramel Waffle (S$12) or Smoked Salmon Bagel (S$15). Fast Wi-Fi and ample sockets keep you plugged in. Wi-Fi & Sockets: Free, reliable Wi-Fi; power sockets at most tables. Why It's Great: Retro vibe and bold flavours make it a fun, productive spot. 108 Middle Road, Bernhard Schulte House, #01-01, Singapore 188967 +65 6222 9988 Sun to Thu: 8am – 7pm Fri & Sat: 8am – 8pm | Genius Central in Far East Square is a productivity powerhouse, designed for remote workers with single tables and long desks. Its airy, plant-filled space and nutrient-packed menu cater to health-conscious freelancers. Natural light and a quiet vibe enhance focus. The menu is delightfully diverse, featuring Mexican, Thai, Indian, Asian and Western favourites. Standouts include the Holy (S$15), which we love for the house-made guacamole and wonderful crisp and just-salty-enough nachos. Their Longevity Bowls (from S$18) include the Glazed Pumpkin Bowl, Bowl and Mexican Bowl of Glory. They serve an abundance of Allium-Free, Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free, Nut-Free, Vegan and Vegetarian options and variants. Wi-Fi & Sockets: Free, reliable Wi-Fi; power sockets at nearly every seat. Why It's Great: Health-focused menu and productivity-driven design ensure focused work. 7-13 Amoy Street, #01-01, Far East Square, Singapore 049949 +65 8940 1200 | | 5. SYIP (Luzerne) SYIP's Luzerne outlet in Bendemeer easily makes it into the top 5 of our best cafes for work and study. It is a minimalist masterpiece, with raw concrete and serene lighting crafting a calm workspace. Known for photogenic brunch and unique drinks, it's a hotspot for chic remote workers. Black Sesame Latte (S$6.50) Iced White (S$6) and Grilled Truffle Cheese Toastie (S$22) are the stand outs. The Toastie comes with black truffle accompanied by cheddar and mozzarella cheese, with tomato soup on the side. Savoury heaven and very filling. Their signature dish of Iberico Jowl Rice Bowl (S$20) of spiced lime Iberico Pork Jowl with ikura and Japanese rice is enhanced by the tangy sides of purple shibazuke and pickled cucumber. A 63°C egg completes the experience. Wi-Fi & Sockets: Free, reliable Wi-Fi; ample power sockets. Why It's Great: Sleek design and unique menu enhance work focus. 72 Bendemeer Road, #01-05, Singapore 339941 +65 8770 9079 Daily: 9am–6pm | | Ensconced in a wonderfully quaint building on Wilkie Road, Twenty Eight Cafe is a minimalist gem with a bright, airy interior bathed in natural light. Its spacious tables and green plants create a conducive workspace for freelancers and students. Serving all-day breakfast, it's a cosy spot to settle in. Get an early start to your day when they open at 7.30am with the ever-popular and very filling Common Breakfast (S$28). It comes with sourdough, pork sausage, pork bacon, hash brown, sautéed mushrooms, mixed greens and an egg your way. Slightly lighter but just as tasty is the Eggs Benedict (S$19) with its brioche, pork ham, wilted spinach, poached eggs and avocado. A Dirty Latte (from S$7.90 for Hot, S$7.90 for Iced) is perfect with either. Wi-Fi & Sockets: Free, reliable Wi-Fi; ample power sockets. Why It's Great: Bright, spacious and cosy, it's a freelancer's productivity paradise. 28 Wilkie Road, #01-06, Singapore 228051 +65 9628 2829 Mon to Fri: 7.30am – 4.30pm Sat & Sun: 8am – 4.30pm | | Best coffee cafes in Singapore: The ultimate guide Apartment Coffee channels a sleek, Scandi-chic vibe, its clean lines and muted tones creating a distraction-free workspace. The open layout and communal seating encourage focus. Known for speciality brews from rotating roasters, it's a coffee purist's dream and a shoe-in for our list of the best cafes for work and study. While the range of speciality coffees is diverse, they are light on food (and other distractions). Savour a Filter Coffee (S$6), Avocado Sourdough (S$14) or Iced White (S$6.50). Wi-Fi & Sockets: Free, high-speed Wi-Fi; power sockets at most seats. Why It's Great: Speciality coffee and sleek design make it a focused workspace. 139 Selegie Road, #01-01, Singapore 188309 +65 6220 9988 Daily: 10am – 6pm | There are 3 Baristart Coffee outlets across Singapore and Sentosa but my favourite for working is the branch at Wisma Atria. The chain brings Hokkaido's creamy flavours to Singapore, its cosy, wood-panelled interior offering a warm escape for remote workers. Using BIEI Jersey Milk, it crafts rich drinks and desserts. The intimate setup and soft lighting enhance focus. They make a mean Mayo (S$9.80) with smashed boiled eggs, mustard butter, Japanese mayo, kapa zuke and red onion. However, the absolute must-try here is the Hokkaido Cream Puff (S$7 each, 3 for S$19.50). I could tell you tales but words will not live up to the experience. The Matcha Latte (S$7.50), available hot or iced, is lovely on its own, while the Mixed Berries Yoghurt Smoothie (S$8.50) goes better with food. Wi-Fi & Sockets: Free, reliable Wi-Fi; power sockets at select tables. Why It's Great: Hokkaido-inspired menu and cosy vibe ensure productive sessions. 435 Orchard Road, Wisma Atria, #01-01, Singapore 238877 +65 9836 9113 Daily: 11am – 9pm | | Like Baristart Coffee, Plain Vanilla has 3 branches across Singapore. I find the one in Tiong Bahru the best for work and fuel. This outlet is a sun-drenched haven, its Kinfolk-esque interior with skylights and communal tables creating a communal, homey vibe. Famous for cupcakes, it offers baked treats and brunch perfect for long workdays. I recommend you try the Smashed Avocado Toast (S$20), Banana Nutella Toast (S$14) and Flat White (S$5.50) for a delectable work session. Wi-Fi & Sockets: Free, reliable Wi-Fi; power sockets at communal tables. Why It's Great: Homey charm and delicious treats fuel productive workdays. 1D Yong Siak Street, Singapore 168641 +65 8363 7614 Daily: 7.30am – 7pm | Homeground Coffee Roasters is a cosy, trendy spot blending coffee culture with art gallery vibes. Its clean, contemporary decor and communal seating foster a creative workspace for nomads. Offering curated beans and brewing classes, it's a coffee lover's haven. Enjoy White Lollipop Blend (S$5), Gesha Coffee Flower (S$8) or Truffle Fries (S$12). Wi-Fi & Sockets: Free, reliable Wi-Fi; limited power sockets. Why It's Great: Creative ambience and speciality coffee spark productivity. 911 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore 589622 +65 8218 4285 Daily: 8am – 4.30pm | | Tomo Coffee in Joo Chiat offers a modern, industrial-chic retreat for intrepid workers in the East, its open layout and wooden accents creating a welcoming vibe. Known for in-house roasted beans, it serves robust brews and hearty bites. I'd fight you for the Avocado Toast (S$18) because it's combo of brioche, avocado, burrata, onsen egg, tater tots, baby spinach, cherry tomatoes and sweet, sweet pomegranate are that good! Wi-Fi & Sockets: Free, reliable Wi-Fi; power sockets at most tables. Why It's Great: Modern design and robust coffee fuel West-side productivity. 189 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427460 +65 8944 8110 Daily: 8am – 6pm | | Can't go anywhere without your furry, fluffy or feathery friends? Well Collective welcomes you with open arms! This pet-friendly haven features gentle, earthy decor, perfect for remote workers craving a connection to nature. We had to include it on our list of the best cafes for work and study in Singapore. Its communal table and tranquil setting foster productivity, while a diverse menu caters to vegan and gluten-free diets. You can't go wrong with the Japanese Chicken Curry (S$19) — the curry-marinated boneless chicken leg and curry mayo work wonders on atop the toasted sourdough. The Hash Sando (S$19) is another delicious find. A Babycino will set you back just S$3 but I prefer the Hot Organic Cocoa (S$7). Wi-Fi & Sockets: Free, reliable Wi-Fi; power sockets at communal tables. Why It's Great: Inclusive menu and serene, pet-friendly vibe boost productivity. 418 Northshore Drive, Northshore Plaza II, #02-11/12, Singapore 820418 +65 6979 6442 Mon to Fri: 12pm – 10pm Sat & Sun: 10am – 10pm | | 22 best brunch cafes in Singapore The post 12 best cafes for work freelance & study in Singapore – Central, East & North appeared first on
