Commercial Scene : Hotel Gets a $65-Million Face Lift

The lobby lounge and cafe at the Regent Beverly Wilshire have been redesigned, marking the completion of the $65-million first-phase renovation of the landmark hotel at Wilshire Boulevard and Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills.

Designed by the Los Angeles-based architectural firm of Gruen Associates, the renovation restores “the original architectural character of the hotel, which has been obscured and modified over the years,” according to Kurt Franzen of Gruen.

The major design program is aimed at reclaiming the hotel’s place as one of the “finest in the nation,” according to Robert H. Burns, president of Regent International Hotels, the owner.

Interior designer Glenn Texeira, principal of Project Associates, said his firm’s goal was “to create a truly grand hotel in the finest European tradition.” The lobby is designed in tones of gold, beige and brown marble, he said.

Also part of the first phase renovation of the 61-year-old building was the renovation of the Wilshire Wing of the hotel with larger rooms, reducing the number from 220 to 147. Special acoustical windows have been installed that can be opened, yet almost completely eliminate traffic noise.

The second phase of the renovation, scheduled for completion by next spring, encompasses the 235-room Beverly Wing. The wing, constructed in 1971, is undergoing a “floor-by-floor refurbishment,” according to Franzen.