Dunton, the renowned hospitality brand known for its destination resorts and homes around the world, is in the midst of a phased, multi-million-dollar renovation, and the latest upgrade is ready for its unveiling: the historic Saloon at Dunton Hot Springs, which dates back to the original 1800s mining town and features Butch Cassidy's carved signature on its bar. Dunton Hot Springs, the award-winning Relais & Chateaux resort in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, is delighted to welcome guests back to The Saloon and Dance Hall, the property’s main "lodge," with its full-service restaurant and bar in the middle of town. The Saloon was redesigned by celebrated architecture and interior design firm Waldo Works. Its interiors are rooted in the spirit of the Old West and infused with modern amenities.
The redesign includes a new open kitchen, bar, wine room, and guest bathrooms, seamlessly blending historic charm with modern luxury—a tenant of Dunton’s overall identity. The updated space features a warm timber-clad interior at the heart of the building, creating a welcoming ambiance that smoothly transitions from the historic interiors to updated 21st-century spaces.
"We were asked to completely redesign the way Dunton caters to its guests, and we are delighted with the results," said Tom Bartlett of Architecture and Design Firm, Waldo Works. The new spaces effortlessly blend Dunton's historic charm with contemporary luxury, creating an atmosphere that is both timeless and innovative. Guests are in for an unforgettable experience.”
One of the highlights of the space is the brand-new open kitchen and bar, where guests can observe Dunton’s chefs at work as they meticulously craft each dish. The bar tops and range are crafted from zinc, complemented by oil-cloth bar fronts and cast glass kitchen walls. This mix of materials creates a stylish and functional environment for culinary excellence. Guests are then led to the sun-soaked dining room, complete with olive green director’s chair-style seating that compliments two large red wagon wheels repurposed as light fixtures above a rustic dining table.
Previously a separate space in the main lodge, the Dance Hall now seamlessly melds into the main dining room and boasts custom banquettes upholstered in napped camel-colored leather and nailhead trimming that pull together the space’s rustic color palette. The deep, comfortable seating provides a cozy dining experience that encourages relaxation and enjoyment.
Barn doors between what used to be the main dining room and the Dance Hall provide flexibility, allowing spaces to be closed for private events or opened fully to hotel guests, while custom floral-patterned drapery separates the Saloon’s cozy seating areas. Pattern and solid-upholstered furniture are paired together for visual variety against a backdrop of vertically striped wallpaper reminiscent of yesteryear with olive-colored beadboarding below. A healthy amount of contemporary and historical artworks of varying sizes—as well as taxidermy—complete the project, giving it a sophisticated, ranch-like identity.
Another standout feature of the design is the printed ceramic ceiling. Inspired by motifs of flowing water and based on 1890s tile designs from the famed Hotel Chelsea in New York City, the ceiling adds a unique and artistic touch, reflecting the nearby springs. This design is used elsewhere throughout the Saloon, where original metallic ceiling panels and molding with ornate motifs contrast with honey-stained wooden beams and trimming, creating the perfect setting to sit back with a glass of Scotch or a seasonal cocktail with Dickel Whisky (a case of it was found in the Saloon during the property’s transformation from ghost town to destination resort).
Positioned between key rooms, the new wine room boasts Dunton’s collection of fine wines sourced locally and around the globe. The room features an inviting glow that is visible from both the Dance Hall and Saloon, enhancing the space's overall atmosphere.
At Dunton, sustainability and seasonality are at the heart of their culinary philosophy. The menu will continue to showcase the finest locally sourced ingredients from Colorado farms. By partnering with local producers, Dunton Hot Springs ensures that dishes not only celebrate the vibrant flavors of the region but also support sustainable agricultural practices. This commitment to farm-to-table dining allows guests to enjoy fresh, seasonal ingredients while promoting environmental stewardship and fostering a strong community connection.
For more information, visit duntondestinations.com/hot-springs.
Image credit: Austin Mann
