The 144-room Residence Inn Pasadena by Marriott has opened its doors at the corner of West Walnut Street and North Fair Oaks Avenue, marking the completion of Pasadena’s first new from-the-ground-up hotel project in over decade.

The official grand opening ribbon cutting ceremony will be held on Thursday night.

“We are honored to develop the first hotel to be completed in Old Town Pasadena in more than 15 years,” said Robert Olson, founder and CEO of R.D. Olson Development, the developers for the five story development in conjunction with partners Marriott International and Joseph Martelli Real Estate Investments, Inc.

The 94,091-square-foot all-suite hotel features rooms ranging in size from a studio to both one and two bedroom suites. All suites are complete with kitchens upscale bathrooms to accommodate the needs of the extended-stay guest and offer a relaxing, home-like environment, which is the main difference when comparrd to the Mariott Courtyard hotel less than a block away.

“Guests will have the opportunity to be a part of the local community while staying at the property.” Olson said.

The hotel’s design elements are a playful rendition of the arts and crafts heritage of Old Town Pasadena, blending iconic period fixtures with modern detailing, according to a press release.

Olson said his firm made “a conscious effort to capture and integrate details and sentiments that complement the local culture of our hotels, and Old Town Pasadena has so much rich history to draw from.”

Guest amenities include and 850 square foot meeting room, fitness center, elevated deck with a pool and spa, outdoor play spaces including a sports court, a grilling area and barbeque, and large fire pits. A 24/7 market and high speed internet is aimed to cater the even the busiest person on the go.

“The building’s design adds to the historical landscape that has made Pasadena a charming and warm community to stay, work, and play,” said President of R.D. Olson Construction Bill Wilhelm.

While the Residence Inn does not have a restaurant or bar, the hotel plans on featuring revolving evenings that provide local cuisine from establishments such as Alexander’s Steakhouse, Roy’s, and weekly a food truck night giving guests tantalizing options of local flavor, to name a few.

“We’re really trying to promote the local restaurants and businesses that Pasadena has to offer,” said Innovate Marketing Group CEO Amanda Ma, who spoke for the property.

The centralized location is an opportunity for guests to immerse themselves in the city culture through countless options of cuisine, shopping overall fun for the solo traveler or the traveling family.

“Today’s hotel guests are seeking an immersive experience that is geographically inspired when visiting the surrounding area,” said Wilhelm.

“We recently had a gentleman check in for five months,” said Ma.

Residence Inn General Manager Maritza Mejia has been with Mariott International for 17 years and is optimistic about the hotel’s presence in the city.

“This is a great location being in the heart of Pasadena. Marriott international and myself are excited to business here. I know it will be a very successful property and I know that the hotel will do extremely well,” said Mejia. “The city has been more than supportive and has extended a very warm welcome.”

The Residence Inn by Mariott Pasadena/Old Town is located on 21 West Walnut Street.

For more information, visit: http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/laxro-residence-inn-los-angeles-pasadena-old-town/