Dive Brief:
- Coronado, California’s Hotel del Coronado has recently completed its extensive $550 million renovation project—a journey that took over six years, backed by Blackstone Real Estate. This widely anticipated effort has transformed one of America’s most cherished historical hotels.
- The extensive restoration has reinvigorated the hotel’s front porch and lobby, refreshed its main entryway, and updated Victorian-style guestrooms, courtyards, and event spaces. Two new dining venues, Nobu Del Coronado and the Veranda, have been introduced to enhance the guest culinary experience.
- Blackstone acquired the San Diego-area gem in 2015 as part of a broader $6 billion acquisition of Strategic Hotels and Resorts. Since then, the hotel has entered a multi-phase renovation plan, with the final stage kicking off in 2023.
Dive Insight:
Rob Harper, head of asset management Americas at Blackstone Real Estate, emphasized the company’s commitment to preserving the Hotel del Coronado’s iconic status as a National Historic Landmark. He stated that their goal was to maintain the hotel’s timeless allure for future generations while honoring its historical significance.
The renovation process prioritized historical accuracy, collaborating with renowned design and architecture experts including Wimberly Interiors, WATG, GSB Inc., Burton Studios, and David Marshall of Heritage Architecture & Planning. This attention to detail ensures that while the hotel receives modern upgrades, it does not lose its historical charm.
The updated guest accommodations now feature modern accents along with redesigned bathrooms that boast spacious vanities. The hotel’s Victorian ballrooms have undergone a meticulous restoration, reviving their grandeur and elegance.
The central courtyard has been beautifully restored to its original design, highlighting traditional walkways, inviting pergolas, and a historic statue and fountain that remains a centerpiece of the property.
Additionally, Blackstone’s efforts extended beyond the hotel’s walls, revitalizing the surrounding neighborhoods. This included the introduction of the residential-style Shore House and a full renovation of the Beach Village. This enclave features charming cottages and villas as part of Hilton’s LXR Hotels & Resorts. The upgrades also encompassed the Spa & Salon at The Del, enhancing wellness offerings, and the development of the Ice House Museum, alongside new meeting spaces and retail options at The Shops at The Del.
Throughout this expansive renovation, the project created over 300 resort jobs, alongside thousands of construction roles contributed during its extensive timeline, emphasizing its importance to the local economy and community.
Hotel del Coronado is a proud member of Hilton’s Curio Collection, which the hospitality giant is actively expanding as part of a broader strategy to elevate lifestyle offerings in its portfolio.