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What prompted Starwood’s rebranding of Prince-ville Resort to the St. Regis Hotel, Princeville?
The location and the significance of the location. Princeville has always been known as one of the most magnificent resorts in the state. And Starwood’s Luxury Collection has served this property well. But in looking at everything it has to offer, St. Regis is a great match. It’s our most luxurious brand.
Why close during the transformation rather than remain open?
It was initially going to take place over a much longer period of time. As we started to look at the impact to our business level and our employees, we felt it would be better to expedite the process to minimize that impact. We’re still on track to close Sept. 19 and reopen April 19, 2009.
What will Hawaii’s flagship St. Regis bring to island visitors?
It’s going to be a property where everyone will certainly want to stay. And yet, it will create an exclusive experience that high-end luxury travelers are looking for in Hawaii. There are high-end properties on each of the Hawaiian Islands. We’ll be that property on Kauai.
What makes the St. Regis brand a good fit for Kauai?
There’s really no better place than the north shore of Kauai. There’s a mystical feeling that connects with health and wellness. Guests will find cultural connections that will be very unique to our property. It’s part of having the best address wherever St. Regis is. We have an incredible ohana — or family — here who will foster that feeling.
What other enhancements will visitors enjoy?
We’ll be adding some signature services that will blow our guests away. We’ll have butler service to work with each guest to engage, enhance and find special things they may not know about. We’ll also have the Aficionado Program, which is a series of events and activities exclusive to this St. Regis property.
How will your staff reflect the high standards of St. Regis?
The level of service our employees provide is a perfect match for the St. Regis brand. They’re very focused on the guest. I have never worked with such an amazing team that intimately wants to understand what guests want and sincerely delivers it. They’re dedicated to creating a sincere experience and to understanding the level of engagement a guest prefers.
Aesthetically, what will be the property’s tone?
Many of Kauai’s outdoors colors will be brought into the guest rooms. It’s a really elegant change that makes you feel as if you’re in a luxury Hawaiian home. The architecture firm, Group 70 International, is located in Honolulu and understands how to bring Hawaii core values into their projects. New York-based designer David Easton was selected by St. Regis to handle interiors. He designs high-end luxury homes. So here, he’ll join Group 70 in connecting the design to the culture of Kauai.
