The boutique hotel renovation at The Alfond Inn blends Spanish Renaissance charm with contemporary artistry, featuring redesigned guest rooms, a spa, lobby café, and refreshed public spaces.
Frequently named to Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice list, the renovation of this Four Diamond, award-winning boutique hotel at Rollins College added a new guestroom wing and public spaces. The design responds to the building’s Spanish Renaissance architecture and celebrates The Alfond Collection of Contemporary Art housed at the hotel. The renovation included the addition of 71 guest rooms and suites, a luxe spa and amenity deck, meeting and boardroom space, lobby café, and a complete transformation of the existing public spaces.
One of the design’s most striking achievements is the harmonious blending of old and new. The approach aimed to preserve the hotel’s rich historical context while providing a fresh and invigorating guest experience. The new guestroom wing integrates with the original structure, using architectural cues from the Spanish Renaissance style to maintain the hotel’s visual coherence. A focal point of the renovation is the transformation of public spaces, including the complete overhaul of the lobby, library, and bar. In the lobby, rich textures, warm lighting, and sophisticated furnishings create an inviting atmosphere that defines the guest experience. The integration of contemporary artwork from The Alfond Collection provides a thoughtful juxtaposition to the historical setting.
“We wanted guests to experience a sense of place that is both rooted in history and alive with contemporary culture,” says Associate and Design Director, Beth Temple. “The artistic juxtaposition elevates the experience, offering guests a glimpse into the local creative landscape while grounding them in the hotel’s storied past.”
The Café stands out as a remarkable example of the renovation’s intent to foster community and connection. Once home to back-of-house operations, The Café now connects the existing hotel to the new wing, offering quick bites and drinks by day and a sophisticated wine and dessert bar by night. With cheerful pinks and lush green motifs, the design echoes Winter Park’s natural beauty. Thoughtful lighting and artful decor, including bold food-themed pieces, create a dynamic atmosphere that transforms throughout the day. Cozy seating areas and elegant details enhance the space, fostering both community and creativity.
Inspired by the local landscape, the 13,500-square-foot spa offers an oasis of vibrant florals and serene, palatial design. Upon entering, guests are greeted by opulent details, including a crystal chandelier, a hand-carved mirror, and custom crystals by Brooklyn artist Carson Fox. The spa features seven treatment rooms, his-and-her hydrotherapy amenities, and a fitness center. The experience extends outdoors to a 6,000-square-foot deck with a pool, private cabanas, and a vibrant, Moroccan-inspired social space for evening events. Here, guests can unwind under the stars surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing sounds of nature, creating a perfect blend of relaxation and socialization. Whether indulging in a rejuvenating massage or simply enjoying the serene ambiance, every aspect of the spa invites guests to escape and immerse themselves in a luxurious experience.
“The design intent of the spa was to create a true sanctuary integrating modern amenities into a historic context,” says Temple. “We sought to evoke a sense of tranquility and sophistication that reflects the local landscape while honoring the hotel’s rich heritage. By thoughtfully incorporating individually hand-made, vibrant florals and serene details, we aimed to bridge the gap between contemporary luxury and the traditional architecture of the hotel. This approach not only enhances the overall aesthetic appeal but also addresses the desire for a unique space that distinguishes the property in a competitive market, positioning it as a destination for relaxation and wellness.”
Project: The Alfond Inn
Location: Winter Park, Florida, USA
Design Studio: Baskervill
Photo Credits: Scott Cook Photography
Website: baskervill.com
