Since its formal opening less than a year ago, Virgin Hotel Chicago quickly became a consumer favorite, according to a recent Condé Nast Readers Choice poll of 300,000 travelers.

While it is uncommon for a first-year hotel to see this kind of positive customer response, the luxury lifestyle hotel’s innovative design, technology and unique ability to make guests feel appreciated is going above and beyond others in the industry.

Raul Leal, CEO, Virgin Hotels, told Skift, “When Virgin does its job well, it eliminates the areas of friction points in a consumer business that cause displeasure.”

In its conception, Virgin Hotel Chicago aimed to re-think the typical guest experience, with a focus on the female business traveler, a demographic it found particularly important. The hotel maintains a high standard for guest consideration and appreciation, avoiding the typical “nickel and diming” revenue that leaves guests feeling undervalued.

Optimizing the accommodation experience with guests at the heart of design, Virgin Hotel Chicago implemented innovation in every detail of the hotel including strategic lighting, hallway safety, double doors, room service delivered outside of the living area to avoid awkward exchanges, well-designed vanities and a re-thought shower. Beds allow for optimal lumbar support and comfortable laptop positioning. The hotel offers advanced user-friendly technology, including a mobile app that allows customers to adjust room temperature, order room service and restock the minibar from anywhere in the hotel. Guests can even choose what they want in their minibar and fridge before they arrive, without the inflated prices.

The hotel experience features regular live music and guest-only hosted happy hours, making guests feel part of an exclusive members-only club without the extra dues.

The successful new hotel will expand to New York City, the West Coast and Nashville in the coming years.