DRAWING BOARD
Arizona Biltmore, Waldorf Astoria PHOENIX
Virserius Studio has revealed designs for the
“Recognising the magnitude of the hotel’s
ongoing transformation of the Arizona Biltmore,
illustrious history, identity and panache, we
a Waldorf Astoria resort in the heart of Phoenix.
have been working to return it to its glory.”
The US$100 million project, due to complete
The team began by delving into the hotel’s
this year, involves a significant upgrade to the
history, reviewing old photography and hearing
swimming pool and surrounding terraces, as
the stories of former guests and staff. The
well as the outdoor events spaces, Wright’s Bar
ensuing concept sees architectural and Art Deco
and the historic cottage-style guestrooms.
details retained or recreated in a contemporary
The hotel first opened in 1929 and quickly
way. Wright’s fondness for stained-glass for
became the embodiment of old Hollywood
example has inspired the mosaic tiling of the
glamour, attracting presidents, royalty and film
swimming pool, while his signature Biltmore
stars. Considered an architectural masterpiece,
Block – a pre-cast patterned block used in the
it showcases the groundbreaking influence
construction of the hotel – has inspired the
of Frank Lloyd Wright, who consulted on the
geometric shapes of the light fittings, furniture
hotel with his protégé Albert Chase McArthur,
and poolside cabanas.
whose own influences are woven throughout the
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT Owner: Blackstone Operator: Hilton Interior Design: Virserius Studio www.arizonabiltmore.com
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original design.
Virserius concludes: “All the pieces in this project are custom-designed in an assortment
“When Blackstone, the owners of Arizona
of colours that pay homage to the expansive
Biltmore, approached us, they emphasised the
Southwestern sky, land and vibrant art,
historic importance of the project,” explains
combining for what is sure to be an eclectic and
Therese Virserius, founder of Virserius Studio.
colourful surprise.”