“We are thrilled to embark on this exciting and final journey of Blackstone’s investment in this one-of-a-kind resort,” said Harold Rapoza, managing director, Hotel del Coronado. “The Victorian building holds a special place in the hearts of our guests, and we are dedicated to preserving its historical significance while elevating the bespoke guest experience to new heights.”
Rob Harper, head of real estate asset management Americas at Blackstone added, “Since our more than $550 million investment plan began in 2018, we have worked diligently to preserve The Del as a National Historic Landmark while cementing the property’s status as an iconic and timeless destination for generations to come. We are immensely proud of the thoughtful work completed to date and look forward to partnering with the local teams to make this next phase of the project a reality.”
For more than 135 years, Hotel del Coronado has welcomed travelers from all over the world to experience the best of Southern California coastal lifestyle. The Victorian building is the original, iconic beachfront hotel established in 1888, and is renowned for evoking a bygone era, with a star-studded legacy and magic of nearly two centuries.
Led by Wimberly Interiors in partnership with WATG’s California architecture studio, the design for the Victorian building celebrates the legacy of the property, ensuring the public areas remain truly Victorian with original finishes remaining intact, but with contemporary design enhancements to bathrooms, furnishing, artwork and state-of-the-art technologies to elevate the level of comfort and luxury.
David Marshall of Heritage Architecture & Planning is leading The Victorian guestroom redesign effort with the same vigor and attention to detail that awarded the firm a “Preservation Project of The Year” honor from the Save Our Heritage Organisation, as well as a “Preservation Design Award” from the California Preservation Foundation following their extensive and diligent reconstruction of the hotel’s front porch and lobby areas.
Beginning in 2018, Hotel del Coronado embarked on a renovation and development plan, facilitated by Blackstone Real Estate, to ensure the resort remains a sought-after destination.
- Ocean Concierge Club—A modern and refined take on the classic concierge club experience, housed in the renovated historic Windsor Cottage, which has been preserved with historic elements dating back to its original conception in 1905. Debuted this summer.
- Beach Village at The Del—An enclave of cottages and villas, which is set to unveil a full makeover by the end of 2023.
- Shore House at The Del—The newest neighborhood inclusive of 75 new residential-style accommodations on the south end of the resort, which debuted in 2022.
- Fitness Center—Expanded fitness center with a variety of equipment, certified trainers and a range of classes including beach spin, yoga, pilates, paddleboard yoga and more.
- Ice House Museum—Showcasing The Del’s history with behind-the-scenes moments and legendary guests.
- Shops at The Del—A completely new comprehensive retail experience with specialty shops and apparel.
- Victorian Building Entrance—A completely reimagined front drive—reorienting the guest arrival experience to restore it to mirror The Del’s original arrival experience at its grand Victorian Lobby.
- Vista Terrace—One of the hotel’s most popular outdoor event venues that can host up to 900 guests, which re-launched in 2019.
- Serẽa Coastal Cuisine—The sustainable sea-to-table restaurant concept debuted in 2019, with James Beard Foundation’s Smart Catch Leader Executive Chef JoJo at the helm.
- The Cabanas & The Views—Renovations of guestrooms in the Cabanas and Views neighborhoods, which added 97 and 217 rooms respectively
- Cabana Pool—New main pool, heated year-round, accompanied by shaded chaise lounges, umbrellas, premium cabanas and cabanettes.
- Culinary Upgrades—Upgrades and re-concepting of multiple dining outlets including the Sun Deck, Babcock & Story Bar, and ENO Market & Pizzeria.
- Spa & Salon at The Del—Completely reimagined spa with ocean-inspired treatments that tap into the healing power of the sea.
During the reimagination of The Victorian, accommodations continue to be available in The Del’s other four neighborhoods: The Views, The Cabanas, Beach Village and Shore House. Exciting guest experiences will debut and The Del’s popular signature programming will continue.
Tags: Blackstone Real Estate, Harold Rapoza, Hotel del Coronado, Rob Harper, Wimberly Interiors
