Over the past four years, the east end of Bermuda has undergone a remarkable transformation. One of the profound shifts to the landscape is the development of the St. Regis Bermuda Resort & Residences. The St. George’s property is set in the middle of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and situated near Fort. St. Catherine’s.
Since the groundbreaking in May 2017, the St. Regis Bermuda Resort has injected optimism into the island. The project has gained worldwide interest from potential buyers and would-be visitors, while residents eagerly anticipate a boost in the local economy and employment opportunities.
OBM International (OBMI), was appointed by developers Hotelco, to create the Master Plan and Architectural Design for the resort. OBMI created a Master Plan with the intent to deliver a mix of sophistication, sustainability, and a sense of place.
The Concept
The vernacular architecture of Bermuda was defined over 80 years ago, by one of OBMI’s founding partners – Wil Onions. That vision was redefined for the hotel, by increasing the proportions of the traditional Bermuda cottage. As the cottages accommodated the lifestyle of that era, the design created for St. Regis was tailored to reflect Bermuda’s unique architectural style while adding contemporary elements that further deepen the luxury experience.
The Strategy
The design of the main hotel complex is divided into three blocks. Each Block will contain five floors, capped with white roofs that pay homage to Bermuda’s architectural landscape.
Block A: At the north side of the property and closest in proximity to Fort. St. Catherine, will house the resort’s amenities including the deluxe Iridium Spa, state-of-the-art fitness center, pool bar, a kid’s area, and retail services. Unique to Block A is the featured hotel rooms on the ground floor. Guests who occupy first-level rooms will be able to enjoy direct access to green spaces, an adults-only pool, and eye-level views of the extended ocean vistas beyond.
Block B: Positioned at the center of the three blocks, will be the heart of the resort. It is situated on the highest point with exclusive views. As a result, the arrival experience provides the “Instagram moment” and wow factor as guests enter the grand lobby embraced by breathtaking ocean views. Also found on this level is a lounge & bar, the golf pro shop, and a terrace leading to the renowned BLT Steak New York restaurant, located on the first floor below. Block B will also house the lavish Presidential Suite offering expansive ocean views.
Block C: Will sit on the southern side of the hotel complex, closest to Fort Albert. This block holds three floors of guestrooms, while the lower level accommodates the ballroom positioned to enjoy views of the ocean and direct access to the event lawn and pool amenity deck. The refurbished, over-water dock was designed with lounge areas perfect for tranquil moments or special events. Also located on this floor with be conference facilities and multi-use entertainment space.
The hotel complex was built with significant detail, modern elegance, innovative solutions, and the appreciation of the unique character and culture of Bermuda
The Residences
Construction of the first of seven residential blocks is coming to a completion, with residences set to move in July 2021. Work on the second block is well underway and scheduled for a summer 2022 opening. The five-story condominium will offer magnificent views and luxurious appointments. Each St. Regis branded residence will range from 2,279 sq. ft up to 4,693 sq. ft. With only three units per floor, all residences will present spacious and sleek designs. The impressive penthouse suites located on the fifth floor will feature private plunge pools overlooking the ocean, a design truly unique and a first for Bermuda.
The Grounds
OBM Bermuda’s chartered landscape architect, Jennifer Davidson, provided her local expertise to the project. Her vast experience in Bermuda’s plant life was invaluable to the developers.
The grounds of the resort will be lush, perfectly manicured, and showcase the natural beauty of Bermuda’s native and endemic flora and fauna. The reinstated 18-hole golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. recently named The Five Forts, will feature pristine greens and spectacular views.
A great deal of consideration was also given to the environment. This was clearly illustrated by the use of recycled glass being crushed and lined in the bunkers and throughout the greens of the golf course. The concept not only improved the water drainage along the course but also matched the island’s recycling and sustainability initiatives.
The Community
Acquiring support from the local community was a critical chapter in the development. To do so, the hotel developers together with the Government of Bermuda, held multiple public forums throughout the construction phases. To demonstrate commitment to the community, the developers modified the project scope to include a new drop-off area to the public beach, as well as public parking areas. The gesture provides assurances the public beach access would remain available while enhancing the experience and connection between the beach, the forts, and golf course.
The Opening
In spite of a global pandemic, multiple lockdowns, and shelter-in-place orders, construction at the St. Regis Bermuda Resort has persevered and will open on time. Once completed the hotel will be Bermuda’s newest 5-star luxury resort with 120 well-appointed hotel rooms, 21 suites, multiple pools, best-in-class amenities, and a brilliant selection of bars, lounges, and restaurants. Additionally, the resort will boast ample space to facilitate meetings, conferences, special events, plus a world-class golf course on site. It is also slated to be the home of Bermuda’s first casino. As for the residences to the south side of the property, they can expect first-class extravagance and a one-of-a-kind address to call home!
To learn more about the St. Regis Bermuda Resort & Residences, be sure to visit www.theresidencesbermuda.com.
