In September of last year, Starwood Hotels entered into the virtual world of SecondLife with aloft island. Their intention was to offer the public a sneak peek oh its newest hotel, and solicit design feedback to improve the real life plans. The sim has been closed for the past few months for a remodel, to reflect design changes made, in part, based on feedback from SecondLife members. These changes are also reflected in the design of the real hotel, slated to open in 2008. The grand re-opening is tonight at 5pm SL time.
The virtual version of the hotel, created by the Electric Sheep Company, highlights the bar and lobby areas, the hotel rooms, and the poolside. All the textures appear to be hand crafted, with excellent use of baked on lighting where appropriate. Walking around the hotel and the area surrounding, it’s very nicely done.
As they get closer to opening to real life hotel, the virtual one will go away. In an effort to give back to the community, the sim will be donated to one lucky winner. To compete, simply head on over to http://virtualaloft.com/ and read the details.
February 22, 2008 at 1:36 pm
i believe that aloft donated the island for a one year period, does anyone have information on what happens after that year is up?