Photos: Gwinnett County's first four-star hotel has arrived

Come next week, Georgia’s second most-populous county will officially count a four-star hotel.

Crowned with customizable, multicolored lighting visible for miles, the Westin Atlanta Gwinnett is scheduled to open for guests March 21 as a cornerstone of the Gas South District, also home to an arena and convention center near Interstate 85.

The mid-rise Westin took shape at 6450 Sugarloaf Parkway, and according to project reps it marks the first four-star, full-service hotel property in Gwinnett. (We’re told advance room sales are the highest in the history of Westin’s parent company, Concord Hospitality, suggesting pent-up demand for a luxury hotel option in the area—or very curious locals.)

Standard room rates start at $224 this month.

The 348-room hotel was developed in partnership with the Gwinnett Convention and Visitors Bureau, which owns the 118-acre Gas South District.

The 348-room lodge, designed by Cooper Carry, is expected to be a cornerstone of the Gas South District. Photos by Bruce Johnson; architecture by Cooper Carry

The new lodge's 6450 Sugarloaf Parkway location in Duluth. Google Maps

The highlight could be a swanky rooftop bar called Overstory with 360-degree views, outdoor fire pits, and water displays described as “dazzling.” It’s slated to host Sunday jazz brunches, plus wedding receptions, corporate shindigs, and other events.

Other facets include signature restaurant SweetSong Kitchen & Bar (with a menu focused on healthy, locally sourced options), 16 meeting and event spaces that can accommodate up to 800 people, and a saltwater indoor pool. The ground floor also features a Starbucks off the lobby.

Below—and in the gallery above—have a closer look at metro Atlanta’s newest Westin property.

The Westin Atlanta Gwinnett lobby. Photos by Bruce Johnson