The Amara Resort and Spa in Sedona, Ariz., is kicking off a multimillion-dollar renovation that will bring a new “tree lodge” aesthetic to all 100 guestrooms and public spaces on property.
The renovation will be completed in phases. Amara’s restaurant—SaltRock Southwest Kitchen—and the Amara Spa will also be upgraded, with the full project slated to be completed ahead of Labor Day weekend.
“When the new design is unveiled later this year, Amara will not only have the newest guestrooms in the market but it will be a destination where locals and world travelers alike will come to be immersed in the local culture through well-appointed design elements and Sedona-centric programming,” said Nick Solomon, general manager of Amara. “With the resort’s panoramic red rock views, its creekside location and its walkability to the dining, shopping and entertainment in Uptown Sedona, there’s really no other property like it in Northern Arizona.”
Taking inspiration from the surrounding red rocks, the renovations at Amara will bring the outdoors in. Every room will have neutral tones with organic textures, while a deep blue feature wall will evoke the nearby creek. Wooden elements like headboards made from local fallen trees, bedside lamps and new furnishings also will reflect nature. New artwork, carpet and linens pay homage to the Hopi and Navajo tribes that are indigenous to Northern Arizona. The bathrooms will get walk-in showers with rain showerheads and large porcelain tile that reflects the look of the sandstone layers.
In the lobby, vaulted ceilings will have two chandeliers inspired by star constellations. A focal point of the lobby will be an elongated bar that extends from the adjoining SaltRock Southwest Kitchen into the communal area to promote socialization.
Alterations to the Amara Spa will reconfigure the entry vestibule for dual access to the spa’s lobby and a new fitness center, converting the previous center into a private dining or multipurpose room adjacent to SaltRock.
“The tree-lodge concept spoke to us the most for this renovation project as we felt that the high-vaulted ceiling and community environment in the lobby reminded us of an elevated après-ski ambience, while the rooms nestled amongst the trees gave us the nostalgia of a backyard treehouse,” said Anissa Mendil of Mendil + Meyer Design Studio. “Our team is inspired by both the spiritual and adventurous personality of Sedona and we’re thrilled to have the opportunity to partner with Amara and breathe new life into this celebrated resort.”
Amara Resort and Spa is owned by Northwood Hospitality.
Photo credits: Amara Resort and Spa