Starwood to Open Element BWI

Starwood Hotels and Resorts announced plans this week to build a 123-room Element property near BWI Airport in late 2009. The extended-stay-friendly hotel will feature large guests rooms, dubbed "private spaces," which aim to give a residential feel, with full kitchens, oversize desks, swiveling flat-screen TVs, and custom-designed closets. Taking a cue from hotels out West, an outdoor fire pit and barbecue will be on-site, in addition to 700 square feet of meeting space.