CAREFREE, Ariz.
The Boulders Resort & Spa in Carefree, Ariz., has begun a significant renovation project with plans for completion by December 2015.
Nestled in the lush high Sonoran Desert, this hideaway is renowned for its dramatic architecture that blends with the surrounding rock formations. Now, a multimillion-dollar restoration attempts to revive the luster of this celebrated resort with a fresh look that continues to draw inspiration from the desert environs.
According to June Chun, lead designer for DiLeonardo, the Rhode Island-based design firm, "We are rejuvenating a relaxed resort environment, embracing and respecting indigenous inspirations of the Old West. Scale, pattern and colors from the Native American heritage influence the architectural detailing, carpet patterns and rich colors. We have included custom details with a rich, organic sense that truly bring the indoors and outdoors together beautifully."
The upgrades to the 160 casitas include an updated interior design, new finishes and furnishings that maintain their adobe-style architecture, one of the resort's distinguishing features. The residential-feeling guest rooms will be set in a fresh palette of earthy desert tones of teal and orange accents. Room furnishings, reminiscent of the Native American influences, include a unique headboard wall that is custom-designed with indigenous patterns and detailing that complements the luxury bedding topped with cozy plush comforters and pillows. Regional art and colorful chair pillows are juxtaposed with area rugs in bold colors and patterns.
New furnishings include contemporary chairs for lounging and sleek ceiling fans. Luxurious bathroom enhancements include a spacious shower with upgraded high-end fixtures and pebble walls. Custom freestanding milled vanities and accessories as well as flagstone flooring, further enhance each bathroom.
The focal point of the Boulders' casitas has always been the wood-burning fireplaces. The designers have introduced adobe-style fireplaces to further enhance the sensory ambiance. The private patios will be upgraded with fresh wood decking and custom lighting that enhance the beauty of the Sonoran Desert landscape.
The fresh design begins with a sense of arrival highlighting the reception area with a sophisticated flavor inspired by warm and inviting Native American patterns. It includes a custom-designed reception desk made of rich inlaid wood and a three-dimensional sculpture prominently featured behind the desk serves as a focal point upon arrival. Custom-designed light fixtures under the lobby skylight add to the dimension of the area combined with the signature fireplace that provides warmth and welcome.
New furniture is upholstered in soft and warm natural palettes and colorful, custom-designed hand-woven carpeting takes inspiration from the rich hues of the Southwest.
Views of the Sonoran Desert and the 12-million-year-old boulder formations take center stage for the new lounge that is positioned to capture a beautiful sunset with dramatic floor to ceiling windows. Added bar seating provides a focal point to counterbalance the majestic landscape. Hand-painted patterned ceramic tiles and wood pilasters create a beautiful bottle display at the back bar. The room's furnishings define contemporary sophistication with large sofas covered in sumptuous leather and comfortable upholstered chairs in deep muted shades of persimmon, white and navy. Flanking solid stone tables, sleek ceiling fans and custom low lighting aim to make the lounge feel both elegant and inviting.
The signature Palo Verde restaurant, located at the main lodge, will be fully renovated to complement the Southwestern cuisine. The modernized décor, inspired by the glorious outdoor panorama vistas, include wood patchwork panels hung in the hexagon dome of the ceiling and geometric parquet wood flooring. This is all set against a clean white plaster shell, which serves as a backdrop for the indigenous color story that highlights the vitality of an authentic experience. New furnishings for both the indoor dining areas and the outdoor patios offer a relaxed and sublime dining experience.
Debuting in December 2015, a revamped Latilla Ballroom will be added, offering floor-to-ceiling windows with ample views of the atmospheric waterfall and the ancient boulder formations beyond.
The resort is a hub of event areas, with more than 50,000 square feet of overall function space that includes a conference center venue spanning 17,800 square feet.
