Scheduled to open in mid 2008 - W St. Petersburg represents a rare development in the main historic area, of this vibrant city. This is the first W to be announced in Eastern Europe and marks another important step in W Hotel's global expansion.

For the project, Starwood has entered into a management agreement with Real Estate Development LLC, which was founded by two of St. Petersburg's oldest industrial groups. Financing will be provided by Russia's largest bank – Sberbank. With exterior architecture that recalls St. Petersburg's history, and timeless yet contemporary interiors, the W St. Petersburg will be an exciting addition to the other five W hotels announced for the brand in the Europe, Africa & Middle East region: Barcelona, Athens, Istanbul, Dubai and Doha.

The W St. Petersburg is centrally located south of the Neva River in the historic centre of St. Petersburg, with many of the city's cathedrals, museums and palaces accessible by foot. The hotel will be located on Voznesensky Prospect, between St. Isaac's Square and the Admiralty, just a stone's throw from the lavish Winter Palace which houses the world famous Hermitage Museum. From their rooms, hotel guests will enjoy spectacular views of the landmark gold-domed St. Isaac's Cathedral.

Award-winning designers Antonio Citterio & Partners have been chosen to create a timeless yet contemporary environment that evolves the W brand to the richness of the city. As with the W brand's existing hotels, the W St. Petersburg will feature W's signature design elements, including the W Living Room, which is the heart of the hotel and creates a vibrant atmosphere for out of town guests as well as for the sophisticated local business and social community. In addition, the hotel will feature a restaurant and a rooftop bar with spectacular views of this historic city.

"St. Petersburg is a fascinating destination full of art, culture, history and romance," said Ross Klein, President of Starwood's Luxury Brand Group. "The ongoing regeneration of St. Petersburg combines the culture and history of Russia's past with the energy and style of the country's future, making this one of the most intriguing destinations in the world and a perfect fit for W."

"St. Petersburg aligns perfectly with W's rapidly expanding portfolio of landmark projects in our region, adding another great destination for our customer wherever and whenever they travel," said Roeland Vos, President of Starwood Hotels and Resorts, Europe, Africa & Middle East.

The W St. Petersburg will have approximately 135 rooms, including suites. Guests will indulge in the W signature beds with feather-top mattresses, 350 thread-count Egyptian cotton sheets and goose down comforters. They will also be treated to Whatever/Whenever service, the hotel's 24-hour concierge that can provide whatever guests want (from a pair of running shoes to private jet service), whenever they want it.