Restoring A Piece Of American History: The Omni Homestead Resort Celebrates The Completion Of Momentous $150+ Million Property-Wide Renovation With Grand Reopening
A Return to Grandeur for America’s First Resort, with Rich History and Beloved Traditions at the Heart of the Investment
HOT SPRINGS, VA (October 23, 2023) –The Omni Homestead Resort is proud to celebrate its official Grand Reopening upon completion of the highly-anticipated $150+ million dollar property-wide renovation project. Nestled within the breathtaking Allegheny Mountains of southwestern Virginia and spanning more than 2,300 acres, America’s first resort is instantly recognizable by the lovingly restored tower that hovers above the treetops, just beyond the perfectly manicured golf courses, beckoning guests to experience the next chapter at the storied property.
Throughout its 250-year history, The Homestead has served as a home away from home for generations of families and an elegant retreat for captains of industry, foreign dignitaries, and 23 U.S. presidents. From the grandeur of the Great Hall to the elevated comfort of each guest room, the restored property nods to this celebrated past while embracing a contemporary look and feel that will appeal to the global traveler seeking a piece of true Americana.
The extensive renovation project began in October 2021 with the $4.6 million rehabilitation of the Warm Springs Pools, which reopened in December 2022. The full renovation encompasses 483 guest rooms, a brand-new 4,000 square foot event pavilion, 72,000 square feet of meeting space, an array of fine and casual dining options, and more.
"The completion of this extensive renovation is a monumental accomplishment for our resort team and a testament to our commitment to enhancing the guest experience for years to come,” says Mark Spadoni, managing director at The Omni Homestead Resort. "This grand reopening marks a new chapter for our property as we cultivate our offerings to welcome the modern traveler while maintaining the rich traditions that generations of loyal guests have come to expect.”
The resort’s breathtaking, natural setting and rich history provided the inspiration for this extensive restoration, which was led by renowned, multidisciplinary design firm WATG and their interiors studio Wimberly Interiors. The interior design reflects a sophisticated, residential style with a nod to the resort’s classic architecture and finishes.
AN ICONIC LANDMARK PRESERVED
The first significant piece to the renovation puzzle to come together was the resort’s crown jewel - the iconic Warm Springs Pools, which underwent a 14-month, $4.6 million rehabilitation process that diligently preserved as much of the historic structure as possible. While the idea of water as wellness may be considered a trend today, it has been an integral part of Bath County and Virginia history for centuries. Fed by four natural warm springs, the 19th century bathhouses have been sought after by travelers from around the world. The stone basin of the Gentlemen’s Bathhouse was constructed in 1761, making it the first spa structure in country.
Throughout the intricate process of restoring the historic structures, Omni worked closely with 3North, the Virginia Department of Historic Resources, and Lionberger Construction to ensure the new structure adhered to The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties.
Also among the resort’s most sought-after amenities is an expansive, luxurious spa with an exclusive, adults-only Serenity Garden and two championship golf courses including The Cascades, one of the nation's finest mountain courses and consistently ranked among the top 100 courses in the country. Seasonal attractions such as a ski area, Equestrian Center, Shooting Club, falconry and mountain biking trails provide elevated adventure for the whole family.
ROOMS WITH A (NEW) VIEW
Tailored comfort is the theme and inspiration for the 483 newly renovated guestrooms. Each wing features a distinct color palette (pink, blue, lavender, and green) that flows from the hallway corridors into the rooms. Exquisite floral patterns come to life in the Shumacher Pyne Hollyhock bed skirts and draperies, along with unique homestead-specific touches that complement the overall décor within the rooms, which were completed in July 2023.
From the room experience to the public areas, guests can see firsthand the timeless embellishments implemented throughout the property, which includes the renowned Great Hall. Deemed the heart of The Homestead, this traditional, charming space now boasts custom-designed carpet with a nod to the flora and fauna of the Allegheny Mountains and is accented with the trim of classic hardwood floors, elegant lighting that encourages a welcoming ambiance and other whimsical, bold color touches.
IDYLLIC WEDDING VENUES AND MODERN MEETING SPACES
Combining genuine hospitality and elegant charm across 12 distinct wedding venues, The Omni Homestead is poised to be the premier scenic location for destination weddings on the East Coast. Most notably, the 4,000 square foot, picturesque Old Course Pavilion (capacity 225) exudes casual elegance with sweeping views of the Tower and East and West Wings. Charming brick pathways, a slate-clad roof, stained concrete floors, and white-wash walls give way to full-height operable window walls to create year-round indoor/outdoor experiences.
Celebrations for all occasions can take place within one of the many newly enhanced event spaces. As the name suggests, the Crystal Room features sparkling crystal chandeliers that cast golden hues to create a magical ambiance. Elegant draperies accentuate the historic architecture and welcome natural light while original wall sconces enhance the décor of the Empire Room. The spacious and flexible Regency Ballroom is completely transformed, from the elegant blue carpeting with flourishes of yellow to the backlit faux clerestory windows which evoke a sense of natural light. The breathtaking splendor of the Grand Ballroom is updated with textured wallcoverings and enhanced lighting for business meetings and banquets alike.
Significant updates to each of the existing 28 meeting rooms include refinished wood floors, new carpeting, furniture, wallcoverings, acoustic ceiling tiles, furniture, and light fixtures with an architectural and functional focus.
First completed in 1923, the Theater also received a well-deserved refresh featuring a classic and distinguished look and feel. The multi-functional space offers a prohibition-style cocktail bar and convertible, dinner theater-style seating setting the stage for events ranging from movie screenings to musical performances to TED Talks and magic shows.
A NEW ERA OF CULINARY TRADITIONS
Guests can wine and dine at a variety of food and beverage offerings, including the new Pioneer Picnic, a fast-casual dining experience featuring a wrap-around porch on the grand lawn that invites families to dine al fresco while taking in the breathtaking mountain views. Martha’s Market, the property’s sunny grab-and-go café offers signature Stances Coffee and Homestead Creamery ice cream. At the Presidential Lounge, a new speakeasy-style bar, the color palate reflects the bourbon and brandy poured and sipped over a game of pool. Notable spots Jefferson’s Taproom and Restaurant, Rubino’s at The Cascades, and the American Audubon Dining Room also feature refreshed designs with exquisite cuisine.
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For more information on The Omni Homestead Resort or to book, visit http://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/homestead-virginia.
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About The Omni Homestead Resort
Welcoming travelers since 1766, The Omni Homestead Resort is one of America's most iconic resorts, offering genuine hospitality and memorable experiences in a 2,300-acre setting within the Allegheny Mountains of southwestern Virginia. The resort is distinguished by 483 guest rooms and suites, 72,000 square feet of meeting space, an array of fine and casual dining choices, and more than 30 recreational activities. An expansive, luxurious spa with an exclusive, adults-only Serenity Garden and two championship golf courses including The Cascades, one of the nation's finest mountain courses, are among the resort’s most sought-after amenities. Family-friendly attractions such as a ski area, Equestrian Center, Shooting Club, falconry, mountain biking trails, water slides and lazy river are also available. The Homestead became part of Omni Hotels & Resorts on July 1, 2013. For more information or to book accommodations, visit http://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/homestead-virginia or call 1-800-The-Omni.
About Omni Hotels & Resorts
Omni Hotels & Resorts creates genuine, authentic guest experiences at over 50 distinct hotels and resorts in the most popular leisure and business destinations across the United States, as well as in Canada. With 26 iconic golf courses, including multiple short courses, 25 award-winning spas featured in dynamic locales nationwide, every Omni proudly opens its doors to share the true spirit of its destination. Reflected through local color, personalized service, unique wellness options, signature restaurants and creative culinary offerings, Omni leaves a lasting impression with every guest and a heightened level of recognition and rewards delivered through its Select Guest® loyalty program. Omni is committed to reducing hunger and is on a mission through its Say Goodnight to Hunger initiative, to provide millions of meals each year for food banks to feed children, families, and seniors in communities in which it operates. Through its partnership with Shared Hope International, Omni is dedicated to the education and training of its associates to help combat human trafficking. Omni Hotels & Resorts is the official hotel of the PGA TOUR® and PGA of America. For information or to book accommodations, visit omnihotels.com or call 1-800-The-Omni