ST. LOUIS, MO (April, 2011) – St. Louis-based Equis Hospitality Management is pleased to announce the opening of the new Hotel Ignacio, a 51-room boutique hotel owned by Moto Hotel Investors, LLC, an affiliate of Saint Louis University.  Equis has a 5-year contract to manage all day-to-day operations for the hotel, as well as all hiring. The stunning, contemporary hotel is located in the formerly vacant Interiors Unlimited building at 3407 Olive Street, which has been completely renovated and designed to meet all the needs of the modern traveler.

The Hotel Ignacio, located just a stone’s throw from Saint Louis University, Grand Center and Midtown Alley, features 49 guest rooms and two suites, all featuring a unique, art-inspired theme, sleek decor and modern amenities. Designed by the award-winning Lawrence Group, the smoke-free hotel features distinctive, unique room themes — Fine Art, Performing Arts, Architecture, and Music — that showcase its location in the arts center of Saint Louis.

Led by Michael Mullenix, Equis Hospitality Management has successfully developed, constructed and operated more than 14 hotels throughout the country.  The company grew out of a real estate and development-based family business stretching back to 1964. Today, it is one of the leading hospitality firms in the Midwest with a proven track record for sound financial performance and aggressive growth plans. Hotel Ignacio is the company’s first foray into boutique hotels.

“In just a short time since opening, the Hotel Ignacio is already getting rave reviews,” said Mike Mullenix, chairman and chief executive officer. “People love all the unique design features and the location is so convenient to downtown and the many attractions in and around midtown.  The positive feedback just keeps flooding in!”

The Hotel Ignacio was named in honor of St. Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Jesuit order that runs Saint Louis University. Located just north of the campus, the hotel also features convenient amenities like a full-service restaurant (Café Pintxos), a fitness center, daily dry cleaning, bikes to borrow and a business center.

Equis’ other local hotels include: Homewood Suites by Hilton – St. Louis Galleria, Residence Inn by Marriott – St. Louis Downtown, Fairfield Inn by Marriott – St. Charles, Towne Place Suites by Marriott – St. Charles, Homewood Suites by Hilton – St. Louis/Riverport and Residence Inn by Marriott – St. Louis Airport/Earth City. For more information about Equis, please visit www.equishospitality.com.