A landscaped park fronts the glass-vaulted entrance to the streamlined structure. Inside is an understated neoclassical lobby fitted with club chairs and a grand piano. To one side, a Starbucks outlet provides caffeine and snacks. Guests ride the escalator to Shula's Steakhouse for lunch and dinner, where an exhibition kitchen proffers substantial meals at expense-account prices.

The indoor pool, whirlpool and exercise room satisfy the active, and fully equipped meeting facilities host 2,200. Airport transfers and parking in the adjacent garage levy fees, and valets are available.

Accommodations are among the best in town, although as elsewhere in the city, housekeeping is spotty. The contemporary decor consists of modern armchairs, aluminum and glass-sided tables, desks of polished granite with prairie-style lamps, large armoires housing flat-screen TVs, and signed prints of modern art.

Heavenly Beds are the star attractions, with plump white duvets, bedskirts and four large pillows. Coffeemakers feature Starbucks beans, speaker phones have voice mail and data ports, and copies of USA Today are delivered during the week. High-speed Internet access is available, but not included in the rates.

Closets are small and equipped with irons and ironing boards. The diminutive baths are in need of a facelift to their polished granite counters and high-quality chrome fixtures. Heavenly Showers feature dual massaging showerheads, robes, thick cotton bath sheets, spacious showers with curved shower rods, and sweet-smelling toiletries.

Some rooms function as offices with fax machines, printers and special work areas. Others are classified as Westin Workout rooms and supply exercise equipment, workout DVDs and a yoga mat. Suites add a living room and are located on the ends of the building.

Room service never stops, and the entire property is smoke-free. Some pets are welcome here.

An overworked staff does its best, but large groups severely tax their abilities.