Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort has reopened on May 1, 2021 following a property-wide transformation, revealing a new chapter in the history of this uniquely chic resort. Born a century ago (1929) as the grandest hotel of Hollywood’s Golden Age, this 39-acre Arizona landmark remains one of the most beloved resorts in the world for its Frank Lloyd Wright and Albert Chase McArthur architectural pedigree, intuitive facilities and storied history. Virserius Studio, PHX Architecture and Jim Smith of Serving the Nation, Inc. – all of whom have deep knowledge of Frank Lloyd Wright’s mindset – were purposefully commissioned for this 15-month project to meticulously restore, repair and celebrate the Arizona Biltmore’s iconic legacy while reimagining the luxurious guest experience for a new era.
“Our team is delighted to welcome guests back as we reopen the iconic Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort that represents grace, style and luxury,” said Danny Hughes, Executive Vice President and President, Americas, Hilton. “The transformation provides a seamless connection between design and innovation that will undoubtedly inspire travelers to rediscover this incredible resort, located in one of the most sought after destinations in Arizona, all while experiencing Waldorf’s signature hospitality.”
Arizona Biltmore’s breathtaking setting near the base of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve creates a magical backdrop for Waldorf Astoria’s unmatched True Waldorf Service and unforgettable experiences. 701 contemporary guestrooms (36 suites, 28 upgraded standalone luxury cottages and 54 villas) are available. The lavish one-and two-bedroom Villa Suites are truly a home-away-from-home, while the guestrooms and suites offer an ideal space for couples, pairs and solo travelers alike. Beautifully restored by Virserius Studio and PHX Architecture to their iconic reputation as “Hollywood splendor with a splash of cool desert chic,” the cottages represent the refined new era of Biltmore glamour in every detail. The high-touch design celebrates the timeless style and influence of Frank Lloyd Wright, with a palette of earthy hues, wood, stucco walls and adorned with bespoke furniture pieces offering a warm welcome, manicured grounds, patio firepits, miles of unobstructed views, living spaces and more.
Bringing to life Waldorf Astoria’s culinary excellence and innovation, each onsite dining concept at the Arizona Biltmore underscores seasonality through partnerships with local farms to usher in the best of the past with an unexpected modern twist. Effortlessly fabulous meets notoriously cool at the transformed Wright Bar, where the famous Tequila Sunrise was originally invented onsite by Gene Sulit. Its refreshed design combines beautiful contrasts; the rich colors of the furniture are set against the signature concrete Biltmore Blocks and the tiered elevation layout adds varying moods and spaces. At the new, evening-only Renata’s Hearth restaurant, modern Latin cuisine takes center stage with an exciting menu and philosophy based around “the essence of smoke” accompanied by a thoughtful selection of craft tequila and mezcals. Named after the property’s architectural inspiration, Frank & Albert’s contemporary American aesthetic skillfully blends upscale, contemporary cuisine amidst a magnificent desert backdrop. For those drawn to the social hub of the resort, the new Spire Bar serves as a lush alfresco lounge space with fire and water features, inventive cocktails and delicious small bites complemented by live entertainment – all anchored by a 30’ spire that pays homage to Frank Lloyd Wright’s bold design aesthetic. For more casual options, guests may opt for in-room dining or The Café.
“We are thrilled to be welcoming back guests to the reimagined Arizona Biltmore,” says Abby Murtagh, general manager at the Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort. “While we preserved the resort’s iconic legacy with our transformation, we look forward to our guests experiencing a fresh, glamourous sense of magic that is found only at the Biltmore. It is a new era for this legendary property.”
The Arizona Biltmore is beaming with best-in-class amenities that cater to all leisure styles, whether it be for relaxed, active or wellness pursuits. Seven sparkling pools are available, including the new sophisticated adults-only pool, the Saguaro Pool, that provides a chic oasis, anchored by the pool’s namesake, a 140-year-old Saguaro cactus. Dappled around the elegant pool are stylish alcoves and cabanas; plush amenities include mini fridges and TVs while refreshing cocktails and bites are steps away at the new Saguaro Bar. A reimagined Paradise Pool is a respite for the young and young at heart with the new 65-foot triple “The Twist” water slide and fun children’s splash pad, as well as 15 luxury, air-conditioned private cabanas. Two 18-hole championship golf courses at the nearby Arizona Biltmore Golf Club; six tennis courts; two new pickleball courts and eight retail concepts are also available within a moment’s notice. A dedicated concierge service offers truly unforgettable experiences including hot air balloon rides, star gazing, desert biking and hiking, and more to round out the very best of the desert luxury lifestyle. Guests can expect unique guest programs and offerings to debut throughout the year.
With a name that honors both the earth below and the moon above, the new Tierra Luna Spa features 12 soothing treatment rooms and a range of curated therapies inspired by the surrounding Sonoran Desert. Unique experiences include the mud and crystal bar and an onsite astrologist blending birth-charts and cosmic forces into personal revelations.
Capturing Waldorf Astoria’s ethos of offering iconic environments, Arizona Biltmore offers 200,000 square feet of majestic indoor and outdoor space, including the 24,576 square-foot Frank Lloyd Wright Ballroom and the new Spire Event Lawn, set against the picturesque Piestewa Peak backdrop. The famed Gold Room has also been restored with the return of the gold leaf on the magnificent ceiling.
Another noteworthy design aspect of the transformation includes the restoration of the signature “Biltmore Block.” Developed by Wright and McArthur as a variation on a textile block first used by Wright to construct private homes, the iconic blocks were made from desert sand onsite and created in 34 different geometric patterns inspired by the trunk of palm trees. The restoration team has retained as many of the original blocks as possible, and the 6,000 that needed replacing or repair were built onsite using the very same earth and techniques as the originals.
Convenience is but another amenity at the Arizona Biltmore, as it is located 20 minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and nestled near Camelback Corridor, with accessibility to leading attractions including Old Town Scottsdale, Biltmore Fashion Park and the downtown business district.
To emphasize Hilton’s commitment to the health and safety of guests, Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort participates in the Hilton CleanStay Program with Lysol Protection to deliver an industry-defining standard of cleanliness and disinfection. Hilton’s elevated processes and Team Member training have been developed with RB, maker of Lysol and Dettol, to help guests enjoy an even cleaner and safer stay from check-in to check-out.
To learn more about the reinvented Arizona Biltmore, please visit: www.arizonabiltmore.com/about/reinvention.
Photo credit: Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
