Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, has unveiled the design details behind its recently completed property-wide restoration, led by hospitality firms Virserius Studio and PHX Architecture. The revamped spaces include two pools for adult and family visitors, standalone cottages that combine the resort’s chic aesthetic with plush amenities, dining venues clad in natural textures and the all-new Tierra Luna Spa and Sol Garden—a holistic wellness experience rooted in the cosmos and Earth’s four elements. Funded by ownership group, Blackstone, the $150-million restoration generated more than 400 jobs during its two-year span, bringing a welcome opportunity to workers in the region. Since reopening in May 2021, the resort has been further enhanced to honor Arizona Biltmore’s legacy, including modern touches for a new era.
“It was important to us that this renovation maintain the historic elements that make the Arizona Biltmore unique while also ensuring guests can enjoy modern enhancements and a best-in-class experience,” said Brian Kaufman, managing director, Blackstone Real Estate. “Through this investment, we were able to create high-quality jobs and ensure the Arizona Biltmore remains a world-class destination for years to come.”
Built almost a century ago, Arizona Biltmore is known as one of the grandest resorts of Hollywood’s Golden Age. Inspired by the innovative geometric designs of his mentor and Arizona Biltmore’s consulting architect Frank Lloyd Wright, Albert Chase McArthur built the resort to reflect its desert surroundings. In recent years, the iconic property has been restored to its former glory by a team of respected designers and consultants from Virserius Studio, PHX Architecture, Serving the Nation Inc., Burton Studio and Wimberly Interiors.
“We sought to revitalize the property while preserving its iconic legacy,” said Therese Virserius, Virserius Studio. “Our aim was to honor the remarkable work of Wright and McArthur, while simultaneously modernizing and enhancing the luxurious guest experience for a new era.”
Also reflecting on the revamp, Erik Peterson, founder, PHX Architecture, said, “Rather than merely replicating the original structure, we sought to pay homage to these renowned architects by reimagining their vision using modern methods and materials while remaining faithful to their timeless design principles.”
In keeping with the property’s architectural style, the structural aesthetic remains true to Wright’s flowing ‘textile block’ design, evident in the horizontal lines, handmade craftsmanship, and open-plan layout strewn with custom facades and materials like fine porcelain, ornate stained glass and mosaics. The restoration itself included McArthur and Wright’s original “Biltmore Blocks,” created from desert sand onsite, and designed with interlocking lines to form a pattern across the building’s facade. The 34 different arrays of blocks are arranged to create a sense of movement and rhythm resembling notes on a musical scale.
The team replaced 6,000 of the blocks requiring repair by using the same techniques and materials as the original blocks, accompanied by hand-embroidered furniture built in the spirit of the traditional design, and a replating of the eponymous gold-leaf ceiling in the Gold Room. Modern upgrades were mindfully navigated to maintain historic integrity, including the seamless implementation of technology throughout the main building and updates to rooftop air conditioning units. In keeping with Arizona Biltmore’s stunning surroundings, Burton Studio integrated desert-inspired landscaping throughout the property, complementing Frank Lloyd Wright’s beloved Sprite statues as well as the resort’s new “Treasures of Heaven” art installation.
Photography: Arizona Biltmore
Architectural Photography: Michael Baxter, Baxter Imaging LLC
