The landmark Grande Colonial has completed a $4 million renovation of its 97 guest rooms, suites, and most bathrooms. The project, which began in November, was completed in phases, building-by-building, floor-by-floor.
“The Grande Colonial, which celebrated its centennial anniversary just six years ago, is committed to making continuous upgrades and improvements, all the while preserving the hotel’s enduring historic appeal,” said Terrence Underwood, general manager. “The renovation project has substantially elevated the hotel’s high caliber of accommodations and amenities for which it has been known for more than a century.”
Artfully recapturing the hotel’s storied past with a keen focus on modern sensibilities, the new design infuses a classic European ambiance and a refined, contemporary sophistication. Interior design has been provided by Warren Sheets Design, Inc., a San Francisco-based architectural and interior design firm, the same design firm used for the two most recent renovations of the hotel lobby, and meeting spaces.
The overall guest room decor package mixes very traditional elements with contemporary and mid-century modern elements. The color scheme reflects the traditional blues and yellows that define the Grande Colonial. New drapery treatments allow for maximum use of the hotels expansive, operable windows, welcoming the fresh ocean breeze nudged about by the new ceiling fans. The deep blue-patterned carpet brings into the room the hues of the ocean and sky.
And keeping in line with traveler expectations, the traditional bedspread has been replaced with a crisply linen-wrapped down duvet with colorful accent pillows. Added in-room amenities include refrigerators, and mobile device charging outlets. The corridors were also significantly improved with new carpet, wall vinyl, and lighting.
A majority of the 97 bathrooms were also completely renovated, resulting in a larger, more upscale, residential style. New vanities with counter and storage space were added, along with new marble floors, new shower or tub enclosures (most tubs converted to walk-in showers with glass enclosures), new warm LED back-lighted designer mirrors and vanity mirrors, and all new plumbing and fixtures.
“We look forward to welcoming back our guests and continuing to offer the first class service and gracious hospitality that has made the property legendary,” added Underwood.
As La Jolla’s oldest, still-operable hotel, the Grande Colonial has been a landmark in the community since 1913. The hotel offers 97 European-style guest rooms and suites (22 of which are residential-style suites with full kitchens and fireplaces). Over 5,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor ocean-view meeting space is also available for up to 120 guests. Breakfast and lunch are served daily in the award-winning, ZAGAT-rated NINE-TEN Restaurant and dinner is served nightly.
The Grande Colonial is located at 910 Prospect Street in La Jolla. For additional information, visit thegrandecolonial.com/renovation.
