INTERNATIONAL REPORT—Hotels are adding room for more events, dining and even F&B and sporting options. Here are some of the properties upgrading for more flexible, modern spaces:
Waldorf Astoria Adds Event Space in Beverly Hills, CA
Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills has unveiled new flexible event and meeting spaces.
The Astor Ballroom and Foyer has added airwalls. The 2,945 sq. ft. ballroom will have the capability to divide into a smaller venue for more intimate gatherings, which broadens the use of the space. The ballroom, as a whole, allows 300 guests for a reception-style event and 200 guests for a seated event. The newly installed airwalls are able to divide the space into three 992 sq. ft. sections to allow for a reception for up to 75 guests or a seated event for up to 60 guests within a section.
In addition, the hotel recently completed a new boardroom on the mezzanine level, also outfitted in gold and black sleek wall decor, which fits up to 12 guests; another option for the corporate traveler or local executive.
JW Marriott Debuts Meeting and Event Spaces in Scottsdale, AZ
In Paradise Valley, the JW Marriott Camelback Inn Resort & Spa is celebrating the opening of its new 15,000-sq.-ft. Paradise Ballroom, including an additional 16,500 sq. ft. of outdoor terraces, bringing the resort’s total meeting and event space to 127,000 sq. ft.
The new 31,500-sq.-ft. facility has views of both Camelback and Mummy Mountains with floor-to-ceiling windows. The $16.5-million dollar venue is one of only six ballrooms in the U.S. with folding nano doors and windows and features adjustable walls that create up to eight separate meeting rooms. The smallest conference salon is 818 sq. ft. and accommodates up to 80 guests, while the largest breakout room is 4,280 sq. ft. and can accommodates up to 480 guests. With all of the walls removed, the Paradise Ballroom can accommodate as many as 950 guests for a sit-down dinner and up to 1,500 guests for receptions.
The newly expanded Sonoran Terrace with views of Camelback Mountain, offers an outdoor alternative for large receptions with 16,500 sq. ft. of event space that can host up to 800 for receptions and 500 banquet style. In addition, the Paradise and Outdoor Terraces range from 1,700-3,600 sq. ft. and offer a more intimate setting.
Beachfront Hotel Intros New Lounge
Sandcastle Hotel on the Beach, a boutique property from Pacifica Hotels, introduces The Deck, a reimagined first floor lobby lounge and beachfront patio.
Located in downtown Pismo Beach, CA, The Deck offers California breakfast and small plates, local San Luis Obispo beer and wine on tap and views of the Pacific Ocean. Inspired by the sand and sea, The Deck’s beach design features neutral, coastal tones, outdoor fire pits and relaxed seating.
East Africa’s First Ernie Els Golf Course Set to Open in Zanzibar
The Blue Amber Zanzibar Resort, a luxury tropical community on the island of Zanzibar off the coast of Tanzania, will soon be home to East Africa’s first 18-hole Signature Ernie Els Design Championship Golf Course. This mixed use development launched the first phase in 2020. Plans include the 90-suite Ritz Carlton Zanzibar and 150 luxury roomed Anantara Hotel, featuring a spa and multiple bars and restaurants.
Ernie Els’s Design Championship Golf Course will form the backbone of the sports offerings, which will also include a member only club house with a gym, day spa, lounge and restaurant.
