ENHANCING THE EAST COAST

The East Coast is updating with hotel renovations. With properties upgrading spaces, guestrooms, amenities and F&B outlets, here’s a closer look at the recent projects:

Waterfront Property Takes Cues From the Sea

Located in Key West, FL, Parrot Key Hotel & Villas, owned by Hersha Hospitality Trust, is now open following the completion of a $25-million­ renovation. The property has 148­ rooms, including a selection of waterfront villas, four pools, a beachfront location and on­-site restaurant.

Designed by New ­York-based interior design firm Bill Rooney Studio, the rooms and spaces take inspiration from the waterfront location fusing hues of blue and cream with reclaimed ocean­worn wood, smooth beige walnut and driftwood from nearby Smathers Beach.

In Myrtle Beach, SC, Hotel Has New Name & Spaces

North Shore Hotel, formerly Ocean Dunes Resort, a boutique oceanfront hotel in Myrtle Beach, SC has updated its spaces. North Shore Hotel will remain as part of the Sands Resorts family. Updates include a new front desk, guest lobby, new amenities and upgrades to public areas. The hotel also improved its guestrooms, a mini gold course and upgraded waterpark.

Philadelphia Property to Feature Local Art

Located in the Midtown Village neighborhood of Philadelphia, The Independent Hotel, managed by Hersha Hospitality Management, has debuted a new look and feel following the completion of an interior and exterior renovation. The hotel has 24 newly designed and distinct rooms, including a selection of specialty lofts and suites.

In addition to the interior spaces, the hotel’s exterior has been upgraded with fresh detailing and designed to accommodate a future rotating, street-side local art installation that will give up-and-coming artists the opportunity to showcase works.

Keswick Hall to Transform Spaces, Dining Options

Keswick Hall in Charlottesville, VA will undergo a multimillion-dollar transformation and partnership with Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, who will oversee the property’s culinary operations. The renovation will be unveiled in spring 2020 with a grand opening to follow. Enhancements will be made throughout the 198-acre resort’s public spaces and guestrooms.

A new guest wing will be built, including 42 additional guestrooms, bringing the number of rooms to 80. The property will also have a new signature restaurant; a new spa and wellness center; and a redesign of the infinity pool and resort grounds. Architecture firm Hart Howerton and Lighting Design firm L’Observa-toire International were tapped to transform the property.