K nown as one of San Antonio’s top hotels right along the acclaimed River Walk, Hotel Valencia Riverwalk recently received a makeover. We bring you inside the breathtaking renovation.
Hotel Valencia Riverwalk has long stood as a top luxury hotel choice for exploring the San Antonio River Walk, the city’s biggest tourist attraction right outside the hotel made up of two pedestrian-only walkways along the San Antonio River and lined with shops, restaurants, public art, and attractions. It’s less than a 10-minute walk from other top sites like the Alamo and Majestic Theatre.
But since its opening in 2003, the 213-room hotel has also developed a reputation inside its walls as well, considered one of San Antonio’s most design-forward luxury hotels with its modern take on Old World Mediterranean palazzos. This year, that design underwent a $10-million renovation, just completed in May. The top-to-bottom renovation incorporates rustic woods, elegant ironwork, hand-crafted tiles and textiles that reflect the design sensibilities of Spanish Colonial style, balanced by the existing “modern Mediterranean” color palette. The public spaces on the hotel’s second floor received the most dramatic makeover, with a complete reimagining of the former restaurant and bar, Citrus and VBar. Here, we take you on a virtual walking tour of the renovation’s biggest highlights.
The Reception Area
Taking a cue from the idea that first impressions are everything, the reception area was a focal point for the renovation. It starts with the reception desk, a custom hand-carved statement piece, set in front of a new Alhambra-style plaster wall treatment used in traditional Spanish Colonial design that creates a unique, three-dimensional textured look. A laser-cut leather tapestry created by Miami-based Artehide is hung on the wall opposite the front desk, and columns throughout the second floor are cladded in warm walnut woods.
Dorrego’s
Hotel Valencia Riverwalk’s Executive Chef Anthony Mesa developed an innovative new menu and extensive wine list for the brand-new Dorrego’s restaurant that draws its inspiration from the rich culinary heritage of Argentina. Just as much consideration has gone into the restaurant’s décor, which reflects the Spanish Colonial design and architectural heritage of Argentina, with a hint of Parisian bistro thrown in. It features Argentinean-style tile work and woods with dark metal accents. The new dining space includes a private dining area that showcases a Talavera Mexican tile accent wall, a tin tile ceiling, and a dramatic chandelier.
Naranja
The former VBar was transformed into Naranja, a new bar and café given a modern Mediterranean makeover. Among its features are a hammered metal ceiling, Mediterranean-style textiles and hexagonal porcelain tiles, and hardwoods on the floor. In the evenings, the space offers a natural spot to meet up over cocktails and small bites in a laid-back setting.
The Library
Rottet Studio created a new library area where the former registration desk was located. This cozy space is reminiscent of an old-school cigar lounge, with wood paneling and shutters. Artist Maksim Koloskov was commissioned to paint a map of San Antonio on the spines of the books in the bookcase spanning one wall of the library. Other artwork also blends both the Spanish heritage of the region (a series depicting flamenco dancers) and the city’s here and now (more pieces showcasing the bridges of San Antonio found along the River Walk).
New Guest Rooms
The focal point of the redesigned guest rooms is the curved iron headboards. This rustic style conjures images of San Antonio’s Mission-based Spanish Colonial influence. New bathroom vanities with a custom gray-brown wood stain, integrated mirror, and bronze fittings were designed specifically for the hotel.
