The St. Regis Aspen Brings the Outdoors in

The outdoors plays a primary role in the St. Regis’s new look

“I felt that no matter what your favorite time of year is, the desire to be one with the nature of Aspen is the overriding sentiment.” So says interior architect Lauren Rottet of Rottet Studio about her redesign and renovation of the St. Regis in Aspen. “The new design brings the outdoors in and allows the guest to feel at one with the beautiful natural geography.” When she was asked to head up the $40 million renovation of the famous hotel, she visited during each of the four seasons to absorb the colors and mood. The final design flows seamlessly and reflects the way Aspenites and visitors enjoy their city.

The St. Regis Aspen Resort was built in 1999 and has become a year-round favorite with both locals and visitors alike. Shortly after the resort was purchased in 2010, the decision was made to begin a massive renovation of almost the entire hotel. “This is the most extensive renovation [that the hotel has undergone],” says Kristi Kavanaugh, Director of Sales and Marketing for the property. “The design was inspired by a blend of the heritage of both Aspen and St. Regis.” According to Rottet, “The challenges were many, and some of the efforts will not be seen by the guests.” The owners improved the plumbing, heating, and air conditioning systems in the hotel, as well as changing the overall color palette both in the guest rooms and the public spaces.

Rottet created a layered design that uses local Aspen stone in the fireplaces, hand-wrought bronze accents, and patterned cast glass from a local foundry. The palette, which changes with the seasons, is a blend of warm and cool colors that reflect the natural hues of the surrounding countryside. Rottet says that changing fabrics and décor was a necessity “if you grew up in Texas before air conditioning,” and she has explored this idea throughout her career. “I love the formality of changing certain items for the season. The changes will be subtle, but will include pillows, drapes, flowers, and overall ambience.” In addition to sourcing local materials whenever possible, Rottet is working in partnership with the hotel to establish an art program that will showcase local artists and galleries.

To go along with the new colors, the hotel is also sporting custom designed furnishings that fit the luxurious location. The guest rooms now feature leather beds and desks designed by Ralph Lauren, as well as ergonomic ottomans perfectly designed for removing boots après ski. All of the room accessories reflect the relaxed but elegant style of Aspen and its residents.

Of Aspen and the St. Regis, Rottet says, “I have been going to Aspen off and on since I was a child. After traveling to Courcheval and Staadt to make sure I knew what the ultimate ski experience is supposed to be, I would take Aspen any day.”