Architect and interior designer Lauren Rottet, FAIA, FIIDA, of Rottet Studio, with offices in New York, Los Angeles and Houston, was originally responsible for the renovation of The Surrey Hotel in New York City’s Upper East Side, but today, she has multiple hospitality projects on the boards with several reaching completion and opening this year. Properties include the Phister, Milwaukee, WI; St. Regis Aspen, CO (featured image); Residences at the Little Nell, Aspen, CO; The Dallas Ritz-Carlton, Belmond La Samanna, St. Martin and The Langham, Seattle, opening in 2026.
Rottet Studio was awarded a contract for a $22-million reboot this year of the 5-star Dallas Ritz-Carlton, encompassing 218 rooms and a lobby, inspired by the original neo-classical style building designed by architect Robert A. M. Stern. Rottet’s room scheme now combines soft, tactile touches like sheer drapery contrasted with rough-hewn materials such as dark wood, leather accents and marble. “We are thrilled to work on the makeover of such an iconic property rooted in classic architecture,” said Rottet.
Also slated to open this year are renovations of two esteemed Colorado properties–the Residences at The Little Nell and The
St. Regis Aspen. The Little Nell blends old-world sophistication with contemporary luxury highlighting comfort and elegance through design details such as vintage-inspired carpets, tufted sofas and lush fabrics. The St. Regis interiors emphasize handmade elements produced from natural materials, which will adorn the rooms, entry, lobby, Mountain Social and adjacent bar. Both properties are inspired by and reflect their scenic locale while re-interpreting mountain style for the 21st century.
Built in 1893, The Phister in Milwaukee is also in the midst of a major renovation with the Victorian structure getting a repositioning and new look as is Belmond’s La Samanna on St. Martin. Lastly, The Langham, Seattle will open in 2026 with 187 guestrooms and suites designed by Rottet Studio housed inside a 42-story building by Kengo Kuma & Associates.
Photography: Eric Laignel
