A spokeswoman for Noble tells GlobeSt.com construction is slatedto begin in December. W Atlanta-Buckhead will open its doors insummer 2008.

"As one of the country's 10 most affluent communities, Buckheadprovides guests with a wealth of entertainment options, includingworld-class shopping and proximity to Atlanta's most popularattractions, making it a perfect fit for the W brand," Ross Klein,president of Starwood's Luxury Brand Group, says in a statement.WAtlanta-Buckhead will feature 291 upgraded rooms and suites, arooftop bar, a Sweat workout facility, and approximately 7,000 sfof meeting space. Thom Filicia is designing the project as part ofa new brand partnership with W Hotels.

"We are excited to make yet another significant investment inAtlanta, our hometown and headquarters. Along with our $96-millionW Atlanta-Midtown, which will open in the spring of 2008, the WAtlanta-Buckhead will be a significant addition to the vibrant citythat has been underserved by true stylistic, modern luxury hotels,"Noble's CEO Mit Shah says. "The dramatic redevelopment of one ofthe most strategic and desirable real estate addresses in Buckheadwill also provide us the opportunity to add approximately 350,000sf of W branded residences and ancillary amenities adjacent to theproject at a later date."