Virserius Studio’s charge was to reimagine and reposition the historic Arizona Biltmore – A Waldorf Astoria resort. Many of the original elements of the Biltmore had been modified or eliminated through the years. This major scale, $70 million project began with a new master plan for the resort. This led to the creation of the new adult pool, Saguaro named after the 70’ Saguaro cactus that was sourced and placed at the head of the pool. The Spire Bar and Lawn event space as well as the reimagination of the Wright’s Bar and the individual guest cottages. Considered an architectural masterpiece, the Biltmore showcases the influence of Frank Lloyd Wright, who consulted on the hotel with his protégé, Albert Chase McArthur, whose own important influences are woven throughout the original design. Our goal was to honor their respective legacies but bring the resort into the 21st century and beyond. Essentially this project was a once in a Century opportunity.
Global Future Design Awards 2022: Discounted Entries Open Now! Save $50
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🏆 Winner
Global Future Design Awards 2021
Arizona Biltmore a Waldorf Astoria resort
Hospitality Interior Built
Firm
Virserius studio
Architect/Designer
Therese Virserius
Design Team
Therese Virserius, Jihee Youn, Eryka Ubertini, Anuradha Soman
Location
Phoenix Arizona
Country
United States
Photographer/Copyright
©Michael Kleinberg
With an eye on the hotels unique place in history, we focused on securing its place in the future.
The adults-only Saguaro Pool was created as part of the Virserius master plan. As Wright was known for his ornate stained-glass and mosaics, we designed Italian mosaics, which illuminate the bottom of the pool, while the magnificent limited-edition sculptures along the cabanas of the adult pool are by Italian manufacturer Bisazza. Each private cabana is encased in black steel with geometric patterns. An important element are the living plant walls. They serve both form and function.
The Spire bar with its flower glass center piece pays tribute to the stained glass of FLW but is done in a contemporary setting, the scalloped mosaic around the bar evokes the art deco golden times in its deep saturated blues, greens and gold which stands in contrast to the poured concrete floor It is an incredible juxtaposition of refined and brute. The organic elements of the curved banquettes both large and small, are all defined by fire pits and a custom designed Spanish tile to add pattern and colors which in turn create and defines the private spaces. Every detail has been thought of.
Wright’s Bar is an exercise in beautiful contrasts. Set against the signature concrete Biltmore Blocks VS introduced rich, deep colors into the space, creating an intimate, segmented environment. VS has placed contemporary modular sofas in the center of the floor providing the flexibility needed allowing guests to congregate around different various seating arrangements. The space is complemented by the art deco elements quietly surrounding the bar with the geometric pattern in rich tones that provides additional layering and depth.
The Luxury Cottages had once been a must stay location for the Hollywood crowd. Our design intent for the luxury guest cottages was to create an atmosphere that truly felt like the home you wish you had and did not want to leave. Again taking a master plan approach to the space, the first step was to reorganize the space, providing a floorplan that flows naturally from all angles. The earthy colors, woods and stucco wall provide a warm welcome to the living room, which is adorned by bespoke furniture pieces and lighting by Virserius Studio and Imaggo Production.
Taking you outside VS created an amazing terrace space that previously went unused. A verdant corridor leads to the outdoor terrace, which boasts lovely unobstructed mountain views that Virserius Studio was intent on keeping. These live plants are maintained by a self-planting trough that cools down the space, especially important in the Arizona sun. The design of this space combines both crafty and very tailored elements. Frank Lloyd Wright’s signature concrete patterns are beautifully contrasted by woods, while glass was used to provide both transparency and privacy.
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