10 things to know about Viceroy Chicago hotel, opening Friday

Viceroy Chicago is the first Midwest outpost of the modern-luxe hotel brand. The Los Angeles-based chain has 14 hotels in its portfolio. Three of the Chicago hotel’s suites have terraces to take in the sweeping city views.

The Viceroy retained the brick and terra-cotta facade of the original four-story building by architectural firm Rissman & Hirschfield. The 1920s structure served as the longtime home of the former Cedar Hotel, a single-room occupancy property at the intersection of State and Cedar streets.

Goettsch Partners designed the Viceroy’s 18-story glass hotel tower that rises from the old brick facade. The architecture firm says the “folding” geometry of the glass tower “is inspired by the argyle-like pattern found in the historic brick façade below,” creating “harmony through contrast, in which both the old and new are rich examples of their specific eras.” The tall tower boasts the only rooftop hotel pool in the Gold Coast.

Somerset features a large, landscaped patio along State Street, perfect for watching the comings and goings in the always entertaining Viagra Triangle. The restaurant is slated to open in early September.

In addition to outdoor seating, Somerset restaurant will occupy a two-level space inside. The original neon sign from the Cedar Hotel will hang on the restaurant’s second floor. A private dining room will be accessible through a secret door hidden behind a piece of art.