The 450-acre JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa in Palm Desert, CA is currently rolling out renovations—partly inspired by the legendary Frank Sinatra—in advance of its grand opening in January 2020.
The resort’s natural surroundings were part of the inspiration for the design of the renovation. “Palm Desert rests atop layers of physical and cultural heritage that are spun together by the desert waters,” said Kathleen Dauber, partner, HBA. “Today, layers of travertine trace the old water line from the mountain to the valley floor and artifacts of ancient life remain. These elements inform the narrative of the interior. Woven motifs in abstracted scale and natural textiles draw inspiration from basket making and the use of plant fibers. Architectural screens appear to ripple, while hints of rich desert minerals are abstracted in surfaces throughout giving a sophisticated nod to the local history.”
The grand lobby entrance was completely reimagined with all-new, soothing elements include water displays at the entry, artistic installations in the lobby and an atrium with floor-to-ceiling views of the surrounding desert landscape and the resort’s famed Venetian-style waterways. Within the lobby, an engaging JW Activity Table provides a blank canvas promoting togetherness.
“The all-new welcome experience is beautiful,” she said. “The scale of the lobby is inspiring, the grand atrium evokes images of the layers of the desert spanning the sun-kissed mountains and cool buried underneath. As the heart of the resort, the lobby is a vibrant center humming with energy, flowing waterfalls, and a sleek bar.”
All 884 total guestrooms, including 101 new suites were updated, with each adopting bulk amenities and hydration stations to eliminate plastic waste. The brand-new Griffin Suite category offers one king bed with a separate tub and rain-style shower, large vanity, hard wood and carpet flooring, and mountain views. Additionally, the 1,768-sq-ft. Chairman’s Suite offers sophisticated accommodations including a king bedroom with a spacious walk-in closet, oversized Whirlpool bathtub, plush living room seating, office space, private service entry to a kitchenette, a formal dining area, and a 350-sq.-ft. balcony overlooking the sprawling 18-acre lake.
Dauber said that among her favorite parts of the renovation is the 234,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, which honors Frank Sinatra and his fondly admired “Ol’ blue eyes.” The renovation will incorporate mid-century modern design and shades of blue into the Sinatra Ballroom.
“The reimagined meeting spaces are whimsical yet sophisticated and certainly a favorite element of the renovation,” she said. “The pre-function space carpet design creates movement, inspired by the water found underneath the desert floor. The largest ballroom space pays homage to Frank Sinatra, an icon in Palm Desert. His final public performance was made in this ballroom, so it was fitting to honor his legacy and that historic event with mid-century Sinatra era design motifs. Cool blue hues and a modern desert palate flow throughout, offering a stylish oasis.”
The resort also includes 12 outdoor venues for creative breakout sessions featuring newly resurfaced patio space and lawn areas available for outdoor activations.
