Ruby Hotels to Open First U.S. Location in Downtown Chicago Under IHG Franchise

IHG Hotels & Resorts and Ruby Group have announced the planned opening of the first U.S. Ruby Hotel in downtown Chicago, with development and operations managed by Ruby Group under a 30-year franchise agreement.

IHG Hotels & Resorts and Ruby Group have entered into a 30-year franchise agreement to bring the first Ruby Hotels property to the United States, located in downtown Chicago. Ruby Group will develop and operate the hotel, which will involve a comprehensive renovation and repositioning of the historic Inn of Chicago building.

The planned transformation will convert the late 1920s era building, situated one block east of the Magnificent Mile, into a 22-story hotel featuring 412 rooms. The renovation is expected to begin in the latter half of 2026. Plans for the property include a reimagined lobby and bar, a rooftop terrace and bar with views of the city skyline, and updated public spaces.

The hotel will be developed and operated by Ruby Group, which will collaborate with IHG to incorporate the Ruby brand’s design and operational features while reflecting elements of Chicago’s cultural identity. The project is being developed in partnership with Berk Properties, based in Orange County. Berk Properties, led by principals David Davidson and Rajesh Masina, has experience in the United States’ residential and hospitality real estate markets.

The planned opening for the Chicago Ruby Hotel is in 2027. The renovation aims to provide efficient room layouts and updated finishes. Public spaces, including the lobby and rooftop terrace, are planned for redesign as part of the project.

The announcement follows IHG’s acquisition of the Ruby Hotels brand less than a year ago and comes four months after the brand became available for development in the United States. Ruby Hotels was founded in Germany in 2013 and, as of Q3 2025, has 35 open and pipeline hotels across major European cities.

No additional details regarding the scope of the renovation, investment amounts, or further expansion plans in the United States were provided in the announcement.