The 287-room Benson Portland (Ore.), part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, has completed a multimillion-dollar renovation. With design by Seattle-based architect and interior designer GGLO, and building by R&H Construction, the nine-month project includes updates to the lobby, restaurant and bar, fitness center, meeting and event spaces, ballrooms and guestrooms.
With original Italian marble floors, Austrian crystal chandeliers and the largest collection of Circassian walnut within one building, the European-style hotel has contemporary yet classic furniture throughout the lobby, using pieces by B&B Italia. Warm, neutral textiles and intricate patterns create visual interest.
The Palm Court Restaurant & Bar has dining service provided by Culinary by El Gaucho with custom banquette seating, a large community table and a unique bar design of hand-picked Calacatta Extra marble that waterfalls at the edge.
The fitness center, relocated to the lower lobby level, was expanded to 1,500 square feet. Frameless glass walls at the entry and in the studio adds light and translucency to the space. The warm wood tones of the flooring are reflected in the wall-to-wall framed mirrors with edge lighting.
Each of the updated meeting and event spaces pay tribute to the hotel’s legacy and its builder, philanthropist and innovator Simon Benson. The Brintons Axminster carpet used throughout has patterns that evoke feelings of fluidity and serenity.
The Crystal Ballroom—with gold leafing, Austrian crystal chandeliers and an ornate coffered ceiling—maintains its historic style. Modern carpet inspired by a European motif and new drapery at the cathedral windows complement the antique detailing. Brass-framed mirrors were reintroduced onto the paneled walls to brighten the ballroom.
The Mayfair Ballroom and its prefunction area have new technology, lighting and finishes. The space includes custom chandeliers, designed to mimic the historic fixtures of the lobby and built by Los Angeles–based Lusive Décor. Over 150 crystal ceiling fixtures were also repurposed from the hotel’s original guestroom corridors to create dramatic shimmering light for the 5,800-square-foot ballroom.