Built in 1909, and located only three blocks from the Alamo and the vibrant Riverwalk, The St. Anthony, San Antonio is a luxury hotel that has welcomed politicians, royalty, and celebrities. In recent years, the hotel lost its grandeur. But, fortunately, BC Lynd Hospitality stepped in and as the new owner took care for multimillion-dollar renovation. After buying the property, BC Lynd and the project architect, Overland Partners, spent a year planning the way ahead.
Grandeur Comeback – Multi-Million Renovation Of The St. Anthony Hotel
In May 2013, they launched a $24 million renovation while preserving many period details. Some of the major changes include enlarging the hotel rooms, which means going from 352 rooms to 277. The pool, located on the top of the sixth floor, is also expanded, while a tiled deck will be added to the west and south edges of the pool, with room enough for chairs that will enable the water to bubble up and fall back into the pool.
The ballrooms on the first floor have also been redesigned. While their dimensions weren’t changed, they have now all been united in the back so there’s a proper flow. Previously, guests had to exit a meeting or function space and walk through Peacock Alley to go into another location.
Grandeur Comeback – Multi-Million Renovation Of The St. Anthony Hotel
The check-in desk, bar and bathrooms were also moved to more centralized and accessible locations. A stairway that clogged up the flow in the main lobby was removed, and another set of stairs was added in a better location, creating both a library lounge and second floor terrace.
A vital part of any hotel operation is the food, and the St. Anthony has ensured this piece of the puzzle will also be first-class. The restaurant will be operated by Andrew Goodman and his team at Feast, 1024 S. Alamo St., with chef Stefan Bowers.
After the restoration is completed, the St. Anthony is re-branded as a Starwood Luxury Collection property.
