Omni Bedford Springs Resort has completed a $1.4-million renovation that showcases modern updates to the quintessential Americana property, including a new Lobby Bar, Tally Ho Sports Shop, Evitt House Coffee, refreshed fitness center and more.
“The deep-rooted history and character of the hotel inspired the design of the renovation, which shines through in many of the new design elements,” said Jessica Ritter, director, interior design, Glavé & Holmes Architecture. “For example, the new lobby bar was previously used as a concierge stand, located in the center of the lobby. We activated the existing space to create a cozy bar serving up single barrel bourbons and uniquely crafted cocktails.”
A treasured member of Historic Hotels of America since 2014, Omni Bedford Springs Resort was once the “Summer White House” to the United States’ 15th President, James Buchanan. Today, the resort’s new and refreshed spaces provide an elevated guest experience that incorporates modern with traditional and provides the same Bedford hospitality the property is known for.
The newly constructed Lobby Bar at Omni Bedford Springs Resort is the focal point of the hotel. As guests enter the sweeping lobby, they are met with a comfortable and inviting space to meet and gather over crafted prohibition-inspired cocktails in the traditional Americana setting of the property. The bar is tucked under the grand staircase and is a cozy space that is met with cool tones of blues, warm creams and dark wood hues that nod to the historic hotel.
Tally Ho, the name for the carriage that originally brought people to Bedford, serves as an updated retail outlet and quintessential outdoor activity shop. From hiking and fishing to yoga, Tally Ho Sports Shop has all that one needs to outfit their next adventure. Additionally, guests of the property can access a daily activity list and the yoga studio from within.
The new on-site café, Evitt House Coffee, exudes old Americana from wall-to-wall. The all-new coffee shop has expanded its offerings to hotel guests and locals alike, with grab-and-go options, ice cream and a coffee and beverage selection including STANCE Coffee. As the brand wide coffee partnership found exclusively at Omni Hotels & Resorts nationwide, each cup of STANCE coffee is ethically sourced and tells a story, while also allowing you to trace that origin back to the farmer who sourced it. The ambiance of Evitt House Coffee pays homage to James Buchanan who frequented Omni Bedford Springs Resort and donned the property the “Summer White House.” American flags on the wall and all artwork throughout date back to his era. The former coffee outlet, Che Sara Sara, has been transformed to a reading nook that is cozy and inviting and offers a brightly lit space to sit, relax and indulge in a good book. The transition space leads guests into the indoor pool and provides a small space of solace.
For fitness enthusiasts, Omni Bedford Springs Resort’s fitness center has also been welcomed with a revamp. The on-site gym has been moved to a bigger, brighter space and features modern equipment including a Peloton and free weight systems for a full workout.
Each of these renovated spaces is designed to reflect the history of the property. “Careful attention was paid to respecting the contextual fabric of a familiar and well-loved hotel while providing a modern refresh,” Ritter said. “The story of the new design is rooted in the hotel’s history. The goal of the renovation was to refresh the spaces and create a meeting place for guests and locals while enhancing the historic elements of the hotel, which has shaped the resort into what it is today.”
Discover the history of Omni Bedford Springs Resort & Spa and book your stay!
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About Historic Hotels of America®
Historic Hotels of America is the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation for recognizing and celebrating the finest Historic Hotels. Historic Hotels of America has more than 300 historic hotels. These historic hotels have all faithfully maintained their authenticity, sense of place, and architectural integrity in the United States of America, including 44 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. Historic Hotels of America is comprised of mostly independently owned and operated historic hotels. More than 30 of the world’s finest hospitality brands, chains, and collections are represented in Historic Hotels of America. To be nominated and selected for membership into this prestigious program, a hotel must be at least 50 years old; has been designated by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior as a National Historic Landmark or listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places; and recognized as having historic significance.
