Construction walls have been set up in the lobby of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa as renovation work begins.
Grand Floridian Lobby Construction

Last week, Disney released concept art for the renovation of the Grand Floridian lobby with a previous announcement stating that work is set to begin this month and last through November 2025.
Construction walls are now up as work begins to transform the resort’s lobby.

The white construction walls extend out into the center of the lobby over areas of the carpet — which will also eventually be replaced.

Couches, chairs, and tables have been moved in front of the walls, and the piano is still in place at the center of the lobby. Furnishings in the lobby will also eventually get a refresh with “rich finishes and brass accents” alongside “cozy” fabrics.

The large decorative birdcage is still in place behind the construction walls.

The walls also extend out into the tiled walkway behind the center of the lobby. Guests can still travel behind the walls, but it does block part of the path.

From the second floor of the lobby, you can see the work taking place behind the white walls. It also gives a better view of how much of the first-floor area is now inaccessible to guests. A large section of the center lobby on the ground floor is now behind the walls.

At the end of the walls, the Grand Cottage is still open and serving Easter and spring-themed treats. The Grand Cottage opened for the 2025 season on March 18. In a recent announcement, Disney shared that the annual gingerbread display will not return to the resort for the 2025 season due to the lobby refurbishment.

Cinder blocks are set up behind the construction walls to help hold them in place.

The planters on either side of the birdcage are devoid of any flowers or plants.
As shown in the concept art above, this area will be transformed into a new lobby bar that will take inspiration from the iconic birdcage that is now behind construction walls. The lobby bar will feature intricate woodwork, stained glass, and brass accents, paying tribute to the resort’s Victorian roots.

The Victorian cage-style elevator is also included in the concept art, which will remain intact following the lobby overhaul.
Work on the lobby began this morning, Monday, April 14, and will continue throughout 2025.
What do you think about Disney’s plans to update the Grand Floridian lobby? Do you like the proposed new look in the concept art? Share your thoughts with us in the comments.
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