The Drake Oak Brook provides history and elegance
An interview with Cathleen Knobbe of The Drake Oak Brook.
Q: Tell us a little bit about The Drake Oak Brook.
A: The Drake is an iconic historical boutique property that has housed numerous famous people over the years. The current team is in the process of keeping that feel going with bringing some modern amenities for our guests.
Q: Tell us about the history.
A: The hotel opened in 1961 as the suburban counterpart to the iconic Drake Hotel on Michigan Avenue. The hotels were owned and operated by the same people for four decades. Jim Nagle purchased the suburban property with his wife, Tely Nagle, in 2013.
Q: And then there was a multimillion dollar renovation that was handled in a nontraditional way?
A: Yes. In today's industry, you see a private equity firm purchase a hotel with their team of finance people and lawyers putting the deal together. Architects, project managers, contractors, landscapers and interior designers are then brought in to do the work. All of the work on the Drake was done by Jim and his wife and a crew of about 10 construction workers.
Q: And Tely assisted with the intricate design?
A: Yes. Tely is originally from Mexico and her uncle has a high position within the Catholic Church. When Pope John Paul II would visit Mexico, he would buy carved wood pieces for the Vatican. The same artist who the Pope commissioned to create pieces for him has created the art table in the lobby, vanity in the women's restroom and crown molding above the art table at the Drake.
Q: Who are some of the famous people that have been here over the years?
A: Over its lifetime, the Drake's timeless European style and inviting atmosphere have drawn prominent guests from around the world. Prince Charles, Frank Sinatra, and Rock Hudson are just a few of the famous names that have graced its guest books. And golf greats including Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus have played on its golf course.
Q: Describe the atmosphere.
A: As you stroll through the property you can hear some of the classic great singers like Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr. and Dean Martin, while being surrounded by hand crafted wood fixtures and crystal. The grounds are spectacular for walking with all the lovely greenery, gazebo, fountain and tennis courts.
Q: What attracts corporate clients?
A: Clients really enjoy the amazing service and attention to detail. Our guest rooms are very spacious with luxury amenities and upgraded carpets and linens. They are close enough to the hustle and bustle of the Oakbrook Center Mall while feeling like they are out in the country. We also include WI-FI complimentary in both our guest rooms and meeting space
Q: What about relaxation?
A: The Drake offers lots of lush grounds to walk around and a spectacular view of the sunset on our terrace. We also have tennis courts and fitness center on the property.
Q: Tell us a little about yourself. What is your past experience in the industry?
A: I have been in the hotel industry for 25 years. Is started out as a front office manger working every aspect of the hotel except housekeeping and engineering. I have found my true calling, ensuring that our guests feel special and appreciated.
Q: Tell us one interesting fact about the property that most people may not know.
A: We have a tunnel that leads to the Oak Brook golf course.
Q: What is one hospitality idea that you are willing to give away to our readers?
A: To treat every person with kindness and sincerity, as we don't know what they can be going through.
Q: Two people we should follow on Twitter and why?
A: Jody Fuller, a comedian, speaker, writer, soldier and lifelong Stutter. I came across him when my daughter decided to serve our country and join the Air Force. Many of the subjects he has written about affect all of us at one point or another. He also has a great presence on the stage for entertaining others whether a serious topic or a fun evening out. Stephen King who experienced so much rejection and poverty in his life and was able to overcome his situation and become one of my favorite authors.
- Kim Mikus
The Drake Oak Brook
Address: 2301 York Road, Oak Brook, IL 60523
Phone: (630) 571-0000
Year built: 1962
Owner: Jim Nagle
When Nagle took over: December 2013
When business opened: June 2015
Web address: www.thedrakeoakbrook.com