The former Lexington Downtown Hotel & Conference Center in Kentucky is now the Hilton Lexington/Downtown following a $13 million renovation that upgraded half of the property’s 367 guestrooms, the lobby, atrium, and the Grand Kentucky ballroom. Design Continuum, Inc. handled the interiors, relying on a palette of rich red, green, blue, and gold hues to create vibrant spaces throughout the hotel.
The hotel’s design reflects Kentucky’s landscape and rich equestrian heritage. The theme begins in the lobby, where a five-story atrium showcases artwork, including a large photograph by equine photographer Doug Prather comprising 20 panels that span 16.5 feet wide by 22 feet high. The image, Fall Foliage, shows thoroughbred yearlings grazing during a fall afternoon on Shadwell Farm in Lexington. On the atrium’s south side, a three-story fountain features four posed horses floating in the sky along with the sun and a crescent moon in a mosaic of more than 10,000 hand-cut and placed pieces of colored glass, courtesy of Mixed-Up Mosaics in New York City.
The Kentucky influence continues to the guestrooms, half of which have been updated with new window treatments, furnishings, wallcoverings, carpeting, and enhanced bathrooms. (The remaining rooms are slated for completion next year.) A calming combination of green and blue tones, punctuated by white headboards, encourages relaxation. Bathrooms are outfitted with classic furniture-style vanities sporting a golden wood tone and blue-green countertops. A simple scroll pattern on wallcoverings and neutral stone-like porcelain tiles add tranquillity.
Additionally, the Hilton’s four suites will be transformed into three distinct living areas, defined by sumptuous gold, red, and teal hues. High-end furnishings will include plush sofas, arm chairs, and chaise lounges, as well as large dining room tables, end tables, and executive desks made out of mahogany. Master bathrooms will integrate glass mosaic wall tiles, a water closet, and walk-in shower.
