After an extensive four-month renovation, the historic Hotel Jerome in Aspen reopens today — just in time for ski season and the holidays. The redesign of the 123-year-old hotel (which also includes rebranding as Hotel Jerome, an Auberge Resort) was spearheaded by interior designer Todd-Avery Lenahan of TAL Studio, and Aspen-based architects Rowland + Broughton. The goal of the project was to modernize the hotel while preserving its historical identity.
Architect Sarah Broughton, who specializes in historic preservation, spent 200 hours researching archival records, photos and initial blueprints — Hotel Jerome was reportedly one of the first buildings west of the Mississippi River to have full electric lighting — to ensure the structural integrity remained as close to the original hotel as possible.
The update includes the hotel’s lobby and atrium, which have been restored back to their 1880s designs. Details like the front desk and fireplace, as well as the Indian rug-patterned, encaustic tile-work floor, were preserved. A new lobby Living Room, with modern furniture and bar, was added for guests to enjoy apps and cocktails. And the hotel’s restaurant, Prospect, also received a facelift that included new furnishings, cream-colored hardwood floors, hand-stitched leather chairs and an enhanced menu with upscale bistro dishes like braised short ribs with peppered spaetzle.
Of course, the guest rooms were included in the renovation, with each getting new molding, enhanced lighting and bathrooms updated to modern-day luxury standards. Finally, a new Auberge Spa (a first for the hotel) with three treatment rooms was added and will offer a variety of massages and skincare services.
Photo Courtesy of TAL Studio