Renovations launchedlast weekon theOmni San Antonio Hotel at the Colonnade, the second phase of a$6Mupgrade. We got the details fromGMDelfin Ortiz, who tells us it will feel like a whole new hotel when the renovations wrap up in May. Phase 1 upgraded the technology in the 326 rooms and modernized the elevators; Phase 2 will bring aresidential feel to rooms, including bringing in new furniture and bedding. (No snooping neighbors though; they don't want it to feel that residential.) There's also alighting upgrade that was requested bybiz travelers. Omni also wanted the city's culture reflected in the hotel, so the new carpet features the Alamo curvature.

Here's a post-renovation room. The upgrade will also add a new kids' suite to the hotel. The Aquatica Suite, named after the Sea World Park, is being designed by students of the Art Institute. (It's across the street from the hotel, so Delfindidn'thave to look far for the partnership.) Some of his favorite features: flooring that looks like you're walking on water with starfish and stingrays beneath, a coral reef built into the wall, and stingray-shaped bean bag chairs. Omni and Sea World employees are voting on their favorites, and Delfin will announce the winner in the next week or two. The suite will include a living fish tank and a "parentscope" allowing parents to check on their kids from their adjoining room.