Tempting tropical travelers, Stanford Hotels Corp. has put the final touches on the first of three renovation phases for the 620-room Radisson Waikiki Prince Kuhio Hotel.
Responding to a growing North American tourism market in Waikiki and to stay consistent with their philosophy towards long-term investments, owner Stanford Hotels plans to spend $38.1 million in reconstruction costs for the Radisson Waikiki Prince Kuhio Hotel. Stanford Hotels has already invested $19.1 in the first phase of the renovation, while another $19 million will be spent on the second and third phase over the next two years.
“Waikiki is undergoing a major change, with a number of improvements in both public and private sectors,” said Les Enderton, executive director of the Oahu Visitor’s Bureau. “Business in the hospitality industry will strengthen due to the Radisson Waikiki Prince Kuhio Hotel’s multi-million dollar renovation.”Completed in the first phase of renovation were the lobby, pool deck, the ballroom, infrastructure items such as a modernized elevators and new cooling tower, along with the addition of a new lobby bar.“With the first phase complete, our guests have had an enthusiastic response to the changes, and are particularly impressed with the new lobby design,” said General Manager Gary Jutz.The lobby was redesigned to brighten the area substantially. Complementing a new front entrance and reservation desk, the “alcove” presents a new seating area punctuated by comfortable furniture and ornate columns with faux treatments, as well as a newly tiled floor. The new lobby bar, serving exotic cocktails and traditional appetizers, is decorated with vibrant crimson accents. Stanford Hotels believed it was important to reflect a connection between the hotel and the island of Oahu. There are many subtle tributes to Prince Kuhio – the first delegate from the Hawaiian Islands to the U.S. Details are found in the design, stonework, columns and artifacts displayed in the lobby, all of which pay homage to Prince Kuhio’s generosity to the Hawaiian people.The redesigned pool deck provides an intimate setting for travelers with breathtaking views of Diamond Head and the Pacific Ocean. Lush flora and teak outdoor furniture surround the newly tiled, sparkling pool, giving the space an ultra-tropical ambiance.
Transformed into a venue rich with island décor, the now well-appointed 8,000 square-foot ballroom is an equally suitable location for weddings or intimate conferences.
Due to its prime weather and relaxing tropical atmosphere, Hawaii has been a favorite location for meetings and banquets. Capitalizing on the combination of business with pleasure, the Radisson Waikiki Prince Kuhio will remodel all fourth floor meeting space during the second phase of renovation in May 2005. When complete, the hotel will boast more than 12,000 square feet of meeting space with additional space located adjacent to the lower lobby.
MAC24, the restaurant planned for 24-hour operation, is also included in phase two of the renovation plans, and will serve Modern American Cooking – thus the name MAC24.Cb5 Restaurant Group developed the concept behind MAC24, and worked with Engstrom Design to create a contemporary atmosphere. Both aimed at giving the restaurant a modern feel, creating a chic dining experience.
January 2006 marks the third phase of renovation and
the beginning of the hotel’s guestroom overhaul. All
guestrooms will be upgraded with new amenities, including
quality linens and modern furniture. Private
lanais attached to each guestroom already provide
unrivaled views of Waikiki.The existing Kuhio Club, the
hotel’s concierge level, is located on the top four
floors of the 37-story
hotel, offering luxurious suites and a private lounge to
discriminating guests. Within walking distance to
attractions such as the Waikiki Aquarium, The Honolulu Zoo
and Kapiolani Park, the Radisson Waikiki Prince Kuhio
Hotel is nine miles from the Honolulu Airport and a short
drive from the USS Memorial at Pearl Harbor.
The Radisson Waikiki Prince Kuhio Hotel is located at 2500 Kuhio Avenue in the heart of Waikiki. To make reservations call 800-333-3333 or visit the website
www.radissonwaikiki.com.
