Ritz Carlton Invests $1 Million in Lobby-Lounge Renovation

The , in Clayton has invested $1 million into renovating its lobby-lounge area. 

It's the first renovation of the area since the hotel was built in 1990. The goal was to brighten and contemporize the lounge.

Glass dividers have replaced Chinese vases and plants. Computer controlled lighting starts out brighter in the morning and slowly dims hour by hour.

Smaller furniture leaves more room, but still has a 'club' feel, Director of Marketing Elaine Gamer said.

The theme for the renovation is 'rhythm and martini.'

Rhythm for the music often heard there, and martini, because the bar is said to offer 200 different martinis.

Gamer said the sushi area has been enlarged, and is now open seven days a week from 5 to 9 p.m. Afternoon tea is also served on the weekends.