In Aspen, Colo., the Aspen Meadows Resort has emerged from a renovation of its guest suites that pays a primary color homage to the resort's Bauhaus design roots and honors the work of original designer Herbert Bayer.
Michael Suomi of Manhattan-based Suomi Design Works was commissioned to reimagine the interiors. The new design heavily features reds, blues and yellows to represent the Bauhaus’ original primary color theory and adheres to the movement’s geometric principles. Some specialty legacy furniture like the Saarinen Tulip Tables and Bertoia Bird Chairs were restored while new pieces like platform beds with storage space underneath were added.
“This suite renovation has been delivered with great respect for our unique history, and represents Aspen Meadows’ future and evolution,” Richard Stettner, VP of Aspen Campus facilities and operations for The Aspen Institute (which owns the resort) said in a statement. “Our all-suite accommodations remain among the most spacious in Aspen, and new and returning guests will appreciate the authentic nature of the enhancements.”
The renovation will be fully complete by April and is the latest in a series of improvements at the resort, which is now part of the Salamander Collection. The newly constructed Resnick Center for Herbert Bayer Studies opened last year while the historic Boettcher Building was also renovated. Further improvements to the Walter Isaacson Center and Plato’s restaurant are planned for the early fall of 2023.
The renovated living areas have new work/dining areas with large tables for dining, working and family games, along with a blue leather banquette. The living spaces also include a Bauhaus-inspired sleeper sofa and updated coffee tables, end tables and area lighting. Many rooms also feature additional reading areas with settees and pendant lights, while original Ferenc Berko black-and-white photographs decorate the suite.
Every bedroom has the new platform beds with integrated storage, dressers and nightstands, as well as modern, recessed lighting and reading lamps in the headboards. The renovation also provided a technology boost with upgraded TVs, charging ports and electrical outlets.
The enhanced suites also have new bathrooms with lighter color schemes, as well as updated kitchenettes with bar sinks, microwaves and refrigerators. The arrival area also has a “drop station” for catching the gear and jackets required for Aspen. All suites have upgraded and new heating and air conditioning units, which tie into the property’s electricity grid powered by 100 percent renewable energy.
The 98 all-suite property is located within walking distance of Aspen’s outdoor pursuits, skiing, shopping and restaurants.