The Arizona Biltmore, a Waldorf Astoria Resort has reopened in Phoenix following a thorough refresh from PHX Architecture and Virserius Studio. The meticulous renovation marks a new chapter for the 92-year-old, 39-acre resort designed by Frank Lloyd Wright protégé Albert Chase McArthur and consulted on by Wright himself.
“The historic significance of this transformation required Virserius Studio to fully immerse ourselves to comprehend the complex scope and magnitude of the project—with the goal to return Arizona Biltmore to its iconic glory and bring it to current relevance with an eye toward the future,” says Virserius Studio founder Therese Virserius. “Our deep expertise in design and architecture allowed us to take a curated and empathetic approach to reconceptualize Biltmore for the modern guest experience, to reimagine the hotel’s spaces and how guests of today would move and interact in them.”
At the intersection of effortlessly fabulous and notoriously cool, the Wright Bar balances rich colorways and furniture against the property’s signature Biltmore Blocks. Originally developed as a variation on a textile block, the iconic blocks are made from desert sand in 34 geometric patterns inspired by the trunks of palm trees.
The new Spire Bar comprises a lush alfresco lounge accented by fire and water features as well as a 30-foot-tall spire that honors Wright’s bold aesthetic. Modern Latin concept Renata’s Hearth and contemporary American eatery Frank & Albert’s round out the F&B options, set against the backdrop of the desert landscape. More than 200,000 square feet of indoor-outdoor event space is located onsite, including the 24,576-square-foot Frank Lloyd Wright ballroom and the restored Gold Room, which features a ceiling detailed with gold leaf. The adults-only Saguaro Pool and the 12-room Tierra Luna Spa serve as the resort’s main relaxation and wellness hubs.
Included among the Arizona Biltmore’s 701 contemporary guestrooms, the 54 one- and two-bedroom villa suites were restored through a lens of Hollywood glamour and desert cool. The timeless influence of Wright is also echoed through a palette of earthy hues, wood, stucco walls, and bespoke furniture. An additional 36 suites and 28 standalone luxury cottages are also offered.
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