Claw-foot tubs, floating sinks, touch-screen showers, and mobile room keys have come and gone and remain. In the ever-evolving hotel industry, hoteliers constantly press the refresh button to keep their spaces up to date. From full-on makeovers to new custom beds and fireplaces, here are three hotels that have metamorphosed in major ways over the past year.
Empress Hotel, La Jolla, California
Originally built in 1969 and renamed The Ellingson Court Hotel in 1978, the Empress Hotel took on its current name in 1984 and joined the Greystone network of independent west coast boutique hotels in 2013. The top-to-bottom $1.9 million, 5-floor, 73-room renovation includes updated furniture, wallpaper, and carpeting. Guests will also appreciate newly hung local artwork and a second floor patio for taking in the fresh coastal air.
Caribe Royale, Orlando, Florida
Past the stunning landscaping that surrounds this extravagant property, a $3.5 million project saw a refurbished lobby and public areas and the addition of two cushy lounges (and new carpets, wallpaper, lighting, furniture, and wall coverings). The color palate favors Mediterranean terra cotta and earth tones. The refashioning is indicative of Caribe Royale‘s overall commitment to quality.
Magnolia Hotel Denver, Denver, Colorado
With low unemployment and high median pay, Denver is going through a bit of a population boom at the moment, which is shifting the downtown hotel market away from the extended stay model. Perfect timing for the stylish landmark Magnolia Hotel to complete their $12 million renovation. Magnolia now offers 297 rooms including three boardroom suites, one grand Presidential suite perched on the 12th floor, 196 king guestrooms, 44 rooms with two queen beds, and 53 suites, 24 of which have fireplaces.
La Jolla hotel