Framing of the new bar in Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa has begun as crew members continue to progress on the lobby’s refurbishment.
Grand Floridian Construction
Monorail Entrance
As with our last update, both sides of the entryway attached to the Monorail station are currently open. However, half of the entryway is still missing the resort’s new damask wallpaper.
The PhotoPass area next to M. Mouse Mercantile is also still blocked by white curtains as it receives new wallpaper and fresh paint.
Across the way, curtains have gone back up near Basin White along with the curtains across the hallway leading to Cítricos and Victoria & Albert’s. The staircase nearest the two restaurants has been closed for a few weeks.
Birdcage Bar
During our visit, crew members were actively installing wooden framing around the newly poured concrete in the area designated for the lobby’s brand new birdcage-inspired bar.
Crews have been working on the foundation for the past few weeks, installing pipes and supports in the dirt before pouring the concrete and replacing the dais that the birdcage used to stand on. Behind the plastic on nearby columns, we can see that their side panels are gone and pipes run into them.
Blue rubber pieces now also cover the drains in the concrete base.
Check-In Area
Walls are also still up near the resort’s check-in area. While the check-in area is closed, guests can check in with Cast Members stationed in the center of the lobby.
We also spotted a construction crew member working in one of the many holes in the ceiling, likely repairing or adding wiring, as many loose wires hang from other areas of the ceiling.
Exterior
Construction equipment and large dumpsters for construction materials are also present on the grounds of Disney’s Grand Floridian as this refurbishment project continues.
Concept Art
Inspired by the iconic birdcage in the lobby, this bar will pay tribute to the resort’s Victorian roots with intricate woodwork, stained glass, and brass accents. Colorful birds will also be included in the stained glass and murals throughout the atrium. Opposite the bar, the Victorian cage-style elevator will remain.
The surrounding lobby, staircase, and front desk will get a refresh with a mix of botanical accents and colors to create more of a garden-like atmosphere. According to the Disney Parks Blog, “Disney Imagineers are approaching this refurbishment with great care and focus in maintaining the heart and story of the Grand Floridian, while adding fresh new life to the lobby for guests to enjoy. ”
The project is supposed to be completed sometime this fall.
What do you think of the Grand Floridian updates? Let us know in the comments and on social media.
For the latest Disney Parks news and info, follow WDW News Today on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.