The Hotel del Coronado, a 135-year-old iconic landmark, is undergoing a massive renovation that’s set to be the largest since its opening in 1888. After extensive upgrades to the lobby, entrance, and an expansion of 142 new rooms, the final phase will focus on renovating all 367 rooms in the original Victorian Building, according to a recent report from the San Diego Union Tribune.
The cost for this phase will exceed $160 million, adding to the nearly $400 million invested by the hotel’s owner, Blackstone Real Estate, in a comprehensive makeover that began in 2018. The Victorian guest rooms range in size from 211 to 697 square feet and will be redesigned to maintain a classic 1800s feel, with modern functionality.
The renovations will involve gutting the rooms, replacing outdated bathrooms with new showers and vanities, and incorporating contemporary yet historically-inspired design elements. The plan includes curved headboards with woven faux raffia fabric, Victorian-style wallpaper, soft blue bedroom walls, and artwork with references to Victorian motifs. Outdated carpeting in rooms and hallways will be replaced with more modern patterns. The corridor murals depicting red- and white-striped Hotel Del umbrellas will be removed, according to the report.
Blackstone’s investment in the Hotel Del Coronado is significant, reflecting its confidence in the property’s potential. The hotel, a National Historic Landmark, has maintained high occupancy, with room rates increasing due to industry-wide demand for experiential leisure travel and the investments made in the property.
In addition to guestrooms, the hotel’s historic event spaces, such as the Crown Room, will be renovated, preserving their historic character. The hotel’s outdoor garden patio will also receive updates, including a recreated 1900s fountain.
The Sheerwater restaurant, located in the Victorian building, will undergo a redesign and reopening in the fall with a new name and culinary focus. A new addition to the property is the Smokehouse restaurant, which is housed in the historic laundry building and focuses on barbecue cuisine.
The Hotel Del Coronado emphasizes its five “neighborhoods” and the experiences they offer, rather than just its physical renovations. Each neighborhood has its unique character, creating a diverse and appealing destination for different types of customers. This strategy aims to highlight the hotel’s rich history and its status as a beloved and timeless destination.
