PROJECT PROFILE
Renovation 'recreates' Hyatt Regency San Antonio's River Walk hotel
By Dave Anderson T
he landmark Hyatt Regency San Antonio not only sits on the city's famous River Walk and offers guests a great view of the historic Alamo, mere steps away, the luxury hotel's 16-story atri- um lobby literally connects the two attractions.
Moreover, the Hyatt itself – which opened in 1981 featuring San Antonio's first atrium lobby – has a well-polished reputation as a place-to-be spot for local residents.
When it was time for the property to undergo its most comprehensive renovation to date, planners were inspired by the idea of giving the hotel a modern, urban lodge ambiance, while pre- serving its rich historic character. Started in summer 2010, the project involved a sweeping redesign and moderniza- tion. Hotel executives characterized the $26
Dave Anderson is a VP at Hardin Construction Co. and GM of Hardin's Austin, Texas office. With industry experience that spans three decades, Anderson has broad experience in construction management.
million do-over as a "rebirth…more of a re-creation than a renovation."
Plans included upgrades to the hotel's façade, exterior walkways and landscaping, and meeting and public spaces, as well as the remodeling of a rooftop pool area to include the construction of a new bar. "What began with our entrance, lobby, bar and restaurant culminated with the complete renovation of 40,000 square feet of meeting space," says Peter McMahon, GM of the Hyatt Regency. "This renovation insures Hyatt Regency San Antonio's sta- tus as the premier meeting destination in San Antonio."
Tried and true
To carry out the makeover, the Hyatt Regency assembled a project team that included Douglas Architects of San Antonio, whose offices literally are down the street from the hotel; interior designer Looney & Associates of Dallas and Chicago; and the Texas office of Hardin Construction Co., which served as construction manager. Hardin Construction has longstanding ties to the prominent downtown hotel, with links to the property's
80 Commercial Construction & Renovation September/October 2012