Hotel Equities (HE) has revealed the conversion of the former Sonesta Grand Rapids to The Gerald. The hotel in Grand Rapids, MI, will be part of the Ascend Collection by Choice Hotels International. The property is owned by Legendary Capital and is undergoing top-to-bottom renovations, targeting a scheduled completion for the end of 2026.
“Legendary Capital invests in hotels where the bones are strong and the story is real,” said Norman Leslie, CEO, Legendary Capital. “Grand Rapids is a growth market with loyal, underserved travelers. Our partnerships with top-tier operator Hotel Equities and franchise brand Choice International position the asset for long-term performance.”
Greg O’Stean, chief development officer, HE, added, “The Gerald is exactly the kind of property the Ascend Collection was built for: hotels with real identity, authentic history and a genuine connection to their communities. Our team has deep experience navigating complex brand conversions, and we are proud to bring that expertise to a market like Grand Rapids that deserves best-in-class hospitality.”
Named for President Gerald R. Ford, who was raised in Grand Rapids, The Gerald will feature new interiors that will draw on the city’s century-long legacy as America’s furniture capital, incorporating elements of walnut millwork, oxblood leather, brass fixtures and ivory plaster. The renovation will elevate every touchpoint of the guest experience, from a reimagined lobby to The Commons, a refreshed retail and dining row featuring three lifestyle food & beverage concepts anchored by outdoor seating.
The Gerald will be located close to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum and downtown Grand Rapids’ gallery and restaurant district, and a short drive to the Frederik Meijer Gardens and the Grand Rapids Art Museum.
The Gerald joins a growing pipeline of HE-managed Ascend Hotel Collection conversions, including The Quincy in Washington, DC. In April. The company announced the conversion of a property near Walt Disney World anticipated to open as Reflections Hotel, Ascend Collection by Choice Hotels, in Kissimmee, FL this September, and another in development.
