The developers behind the South End Ink Block, National Development, recently unveiled an image of a proposed 200 room AC Hotel by Marriott, a brand that targets Gen X and Millennials. According to National’s PR machine, the hotel will have a contemporary feel that will blend in with the four adjacent buildings.
Based on drawings that I’ve seen previously of the Ink Block development, the hotel building looks like it would be on the corner of Albany and Traveler Streets. The article (linked below) indicates this property would open in early 2017.
More details here.
BosGuy 
I stayed at the one in NOLA in December and Spain (Barcelona) this past fall – I enjoyed it very much.
This brand is in response to the successful Andaz brand in the Hyatt portfolio.
It is another step in recognizing that today’s travellers (business or leisure) have vastly different needs than 25 years ago as far as amenities, location and staff interaction.
Also since the average property has only 200 keys it opens itself up for faster development from the construction standpoint and also as an investment.
A great example of changing the guest experience is that for check-in / check-out there is not the standard high counter between you as the guest and the hotel associate. Instead both Andaz and AC use standard desks where both parties are seated across from one another. Much more service oriented.
I am in Los Angeles at least once a month and with far and few exceptions always stay at the Andaz West Hollywood. I’ve come to know the employees (and they in turn me.) Before it was branded Andaz it was a standard Hyatt property (Little Richard used to rent the entire top floor) – the transformation was amazing. Plus I am partial to the Hyatt Gold Passport frequent guest program.
This will be an excellent addition to the Boston hotel scene – and a nice anchor for the development of the Ink Block.
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