This gleaming tower of modern design has redefined the Charlotte hotel scene with its mirrored surfaces, jarring architectural shape and designer appeal. Lying along the edge of the downtown area and across the street from the convention center, it is within walking distance of all the action.
Guests arrive at a front circle anchored by a gurgling fountain and eager valets, who direct self-parkers to the costly parking garage. The lobby offers swank New York City design with southern appeal. The gargantuan modern chandelier illuminates plentiful seating areas, although most choose to lounge in the spacious bar area. The reception area doubles as the concierge but offers friendly service. The new Westin fragrance wafts through the public areas (thanks to discreet fragrance dispensers), which creates a mellow atmosphere
of calming serenity.
Popular with guests and locals alike, Bar 10 fronts the lobby's glass-lined wall and outdoor fountains. Nights see constant buzz, and the prices are set to appeal to a higher-end crowd. A deli is tucked in the corner (but keeps strange hours), and a posh restaurant, the Ember Grille, sits across the hall. The chef's modern fusion cuisine is evident in colorful salads, beautifully designed entrees and even more tantalizing desserts.
Meeting space is extensive with a large ballroom and several breakout rooms accommodating more than 2,000. A business center provides the usual services and high-speed Internet for a fee. The health club is part of the Westin Workout 
program, offering a large selection of cardio and weight machines, plus a refreshing (yet narrow) indoor lap pool. Locker rooms, showers and saunas round out the amenities.
Masculine hues of shiny silver, dark mahogany and blushing burgundy abound in the accommodations. All show the famous Westin Heavenly Bed with its layers of crisp sheets, down comforter, pillow-top mattress and piles of pillows. A desk, coffeemaker, high-speed Internet access (for a fee), armchair, and dual-line phones with voice mail and data ports are found behind every door. Baths have aromatherapy toiletries, adequate counter space, Egyptian cotton bath sheets, and the Heavenly Shower with its curved shower rod adding space and its massaging showerhead adding relaxation.
Corner rooms are preferable for their larger baths with windowed shower stalls overlooking the city and surrounding area. Suites provide a second bath and large living area. Room service operates during normal hours, and housekeeping does a meticulous job keeping things in order.
The entire property is now smoke-free. The classic Westin feel is overshadowed here by urban sleekness. It competes solidly for corporate business with the more central Omni at the intersection of Tryon and Trade. This is undoubtedly the finest large property in the downtown area and caters to well-traveled businesspeople and trendy city slickers.
