The Innisbrook, a Salamander Golf & Spa Resort, is marking its 50th anniversary with a fresh, new look for its guest suites and renowned South Course.
Operated by Salamander Hotels & Resorts and owned by Sheila C. Johnson, Innisbrook is situated on acres of rolling hills in the St. Petersburg/Clearwater area on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
In a Q&A with InspireDesign, Karen Kent, principal of Ken Interior Design, peels back the curtain on this transformation:
What was the design philosophy for the project?
The design philosophy for the remodeling of Innisbrook’s accommodations took the resort location into account as Innisbrook is outside of Tampa, FL, but with close proximity to the beautiful beaches on Florida’s Gulf Coast. We planned for transitional design with coastal influences that were fresh, soothing, and inviting, but that also will stand the test of time—nothing too trendy. We used a lot of clean lines with updated finishes resulting in a look that has a very welcoming, classic and contemporary feel.
What was the inspiration for this project?
Innisbrook is located on nearly 1,000 acres of beautiful, natural landscape that, surprisingly for Florida, even include rolling hills and tall stands of pines as well as numerous lakes. Entering the gates of this full-service resort gives one that relaxing, serene feeling that only Mother Nature can supply. You will immediately want to take in all that is available to do outdoors which includes four championship golf courses—one of which is the PGA Tour venue for the Valspar Championship. The new artwork in the rooms includes actual photographs of the golf courses, so you get a sense for the acres and acres of green space that gives nature the room to really show off. The accommodations are all spacious condo-style suites with full kitchens which is perfect for golfers, families and multi-generational travel so we wanted to create a serene setting that invites you to get comfortable and settle in for a comfortable and relaxing stay. Two color schemes were used in our design, a gorgeous, vibrant blue and a soothing teal, again incorporating that touch of nature that surrounds you during your entire visit.
Tell me about the elements that make this project special.
All of the fabrics selected for this project exceed industry standards in terms of comfort and durability. We strived to use a large percentage of products that were made in the U.S. In fact, all of the upholstered furnishings were designed and manufactured in the U.S. The kitchens will include quartz countertops which are designed to wear longer and resist stains and scratches. Timeless durability coupled with other elements that can be updated as necessary offer a perfect design.
What do you hope guests will take away from the new look and feel?
Guests at the resort often comment on the perfect mixture of a unique, natural setting, an engaging staff that truly cares, and the comfortable luxury of an accommodation that makes you feel both pampered and at home. The newly remodeled suite accommodations will play a prominent part in that sought after experience of the perfect stay at a quintessential Florida golf resort. The room is designed to leverage this prestigious golf and vacation destination. Resort guests will also recognize the comfortable luxury that is so typical across the Salamander Golf Resort collection, as well as the Salamander Hotels & Resorts portfolio of four- and five-star properties.
