Element Detroit at the Metropolitan — Hotel in Detroit

As an architecture and design enthusiast, I wanted to experience one of the hotels in a historic building while visiting Detroit, and I chose the Element. It was my first time staying at an Element hotel so I was curious about the branding as well as the architecture of the Metropolitan Building.

The hotel did a fabulous job with the building conversion, which was apparent upon entering the building. You should also check out the rooftop bar! (Unfortunately, they close quite early, around 7 PM I believe, and didn’t have any more space when we visited at about 6:30 PM, but they did allow us to check out the view from the outdoor patio.)

I was happy with the front desk service overall. The staff member I met during both check-in and check-out were friendly and had positive vibes. The check-in staff member took her time to explain the hotel’s features and amenities. I appreciated the upgrade to a studio on the 11th floor, which was very roomy and had fabulous views of Detroit’s skyline.

I really liked the room design. Although it was not as characteristic as the building itself (a few more artworks or furnishings might do), it was very bright and modern. I loved the Element’s bed headboard (curved at the edges) and the desk design. The olive-green wall paint behind the bed was also nice. The kitchen was well stocked. However, with the amount of space, it would have been nice to have a sofa bed in the room, especially considering the hotel is an extended stay brand – something like Courtyard’s in-room sofa bed will do. Just be careful with the shower – it might be a bit slippery.

The breakfast was a highlight of the hotel. There was a made-to-order dish (eggs with vegetables) that was beautifully presented and rivaled those at sit-down brunch restaurants. It was hands-down the best breakfast I’ve had so far at a hotel that offers complimentary breakfast to all guests. However, the service of the breakfast staff member could be improved…It was nearing the end of breakfast time and the staff member was going to clean up the yoghurt counter, and I wanted to get a bowl of yoghurt before it was put away, so I went over and politely indicated that. However, she seemed frightened by me and slightly annoyed by my wanting to get a bowl of yoghurt. Otherwise, she is a great cook and that deserves compliment.

There was also an incident when I was messaging the hotel on the Marriott app, and after saying “thank you,” the staff member replied by saying “my pleasure” but also “there is no need to respond because it will reopen the chat.” It just seemed to be such a weird and unnecessary way to respond to a “thank you”. However, the check-out staff member at the front desk was extremely polite and pleasant.

Overall, I would recommend staying at the hotel; more consistency in service would take the experience to...

Our recent stay at the Element Detroit with my boyfriend transformed a simple getaway into an unforgettable experience, marked by unparalleled service and genuine warmth from every staff member we encountered. From the moment we stepped foot into the hotel, we were greeted by front staff and valet with such professionalism and kindness, immediately setting a welcoming tone for our visit.

However, the standout of our stay was undeniably our interaction with the breakfast buffet staff, particularly a wonderful lady named Kim. Kim’s presence was a radiant highlight, enhancing our experience to extraordinary levels with her exceptional service and heartfelt warmth. She wasn’t just performing her duties; she was crafting an experience, making every guest feel seen and valued.

A defining moment that left a deep impression on us was how Kim handled a group of men who arrived after the breakfast hours had ended. Demonstrating incredible hospitality, she graciously allowed them to enjoy their breakfast regardless. This act of kindness not only showcased her dedication but also exemplified the hotel’s overall ethos of guest satisfaction above all.

Kim’s efforts to go above and beyond for every guest, ensuring their start to the day was as pleasant and fulfilling as possible, were nothing short of inspiring. It was these personal touches, these moments of unexpected generosity, that truly set the Element Detroit apart.

Reflecting on our stay, it’s clear that while the hotel itself offered all the amenities and comforts we could ask for, it was the people, especially Kim, who made our visit memorable. The Element Detroit, through its staff, has mastered the art of hospitality, making it not just a place to stay, but a place to return to, time and again.

In conclusion, our visit to the Element Detroit, shared with my boyfriend, was significantly enriched by the staff’s exemplary service. It’s a testament to how the right people can turn a good experience into an amazing one. Kim, in particular, with her extraordinary dedication, is a true star...

If you're looking for a hotel that blends street-smart style with top-tier service, Element Detroit at The Metropolitan is where Detroit cool meets corporate savvy. Housed in the restored Metropolitan Building—a Neo-Gothic gem from 1925—this place oozes character while delivering serious modern appeal.

From check-in to check-out, you're treated like you run things. The staff? Friendly, professional, and on point. They greet you like family and move like a well-oiled machine. The rooms are spacious, spotless, and smartly designed, complete with full kitchens—perfect for extended stays or guests who want more than just a bed and a bathroom.

Many rooms offer killer city views, and the hotel is smack in the heart of downtown. You’re steps from Comerica Park, Ford Field, the Fox Theatre, Little Caesars Arena, and a People Mover stop. Whether you're in town for business, a game, or just vibing with the Motor City, the location puts you in pole position.

The complimentary breakfast hits the mark with healthy and hearty options—no dry bagels or weak coffee here. And the rooftop bar, Monarch Club, is next-level. It's got those skyline views, craft cocktails, and a vibe that mixes rooftop glam with Detroit grit.

Cleanliness? Impeccable. Amenities? Solid across the board. And there's a quiet confidence to the whole place—modern, eco-friendly, and built with purpose. The Element doesn’t try too hard, because it doesn’t have to. It simply delivers.

Bottom line: Element Detroit isn’t just a place to crash—it’s a playbook on how a downtown hotel should operate. It’s stylish, smart, and soaked in Detroit pride. Whether you’re rolling through for the night or setting up shop for a week, this...