Wimberly Interiors was honored to lead a transformative renovation for the iconic grande dame of San Diego – the Hotel Del Coronado, known affectionately as “The Del.” Built in 1888 and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1977, the Hotel Del Coronado has been a living legend in American luxury hospitality, with Gilded Age historical architecture, extraordinary sea views and beach-loving guests that include royalty, heads of state, war heroes, celebrities and even ghosts.

The overall design for the Victorian building intentionally celebrates the history and legacy of this legendary seaside resort. Delivering a fresh and luxurious take on the design legacy, Wimberly Interiors led an integrated team that included WATG’s California architecture studio which served as the Architect of Record. The vision ensured public areas remained truly Victorian with original finishes remaining intact and focusing the design on enhancing and refreshing what exists today in the hotel.

Light – both natural and new – was used strategically throughout the space through architectural and decorative fixtures to illuminate the Victorian heritage. With a layered design approach inspired by classical elements but with a modern expression, palettes are lighter and brighter, but accents remain anchored in proper Victorian hues. The new spaces are fresh and relevant yet remain rooted in the rich history that honors The Del.

In collaboration with renowned preservation firm Heritage Architecture and Planning, the design team painstakingly restored the lobby’s signature Illinois white oak walls and flooring to its original essence. The restoration unveiled the true character of the wood, now boasting detailed grains and textures that highlight the history and beauty of this treasured material.

As guests continue through the arrival space, they will find a reimagined historic fireplace that has been elegantly used as a backdrop for the concierge desk. And new reception desks which were designed as a reproduction of the historic desks of years past. The desks feature a backdrop of historically inspired cabinets and a creative, curated art installation of vintage Hotel Del Coronado room keys with vibrant green tassels.  

While Hotel Del has entertained such icons as Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe and Charles Lindbergh, it is the everyday guests who have loved and adored this historical gem since 1888. Wimberly Interiors seized that magic and created a photo gallery of real guests enjoying The Del, situated along the main corridor leading to the Grand Ballroom. With these beloved guests in mind – Wimberly Interiors designed with a vision to ensure the charm of the old is cherished, reimagined, and celebrated in a modern, fresh, luxurious manner.  

Project location: 1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118

Completion year: 2021

Architect of Record: WATG

Interior Design Firm: Wimberly Interiors

Preservation firm: Heritage Architecture and Planning