Disney Parks Blog has released new concept art for the lobby renovation at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.
Disney’s Grand Floridian Lobby Renovation
Since 1988, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa has been known for its unique Victorian theming, which Disney says they will “continue to honor” during its lobby renovation.
The renovation of the lobby marks the culmination of the resort’s years-long overhaul, which has included refurbished guest rooms, updated dining experiences like at Victoria & Albert’s, Cítricos, Narcoossee’s, and 1900 Park Fare, and more.
Former CEO Bob Chapek had reportedly felt that the Grand Floridian was not up to standards when he took over the Disney Parks division of The Walt Disney Company in 2015. We first reported on the controversial lobby update in 2022. Amid backlash, Disney publicly defended the resort’s overhaul, and later confirmed the refurbishment plans later that same year, stating that the refurbishment would be for the resort’s 35th annviersary. The lobby refresh was eventually delayed, and the milestone year came and went in 2023. Construction took place in the lobby that year, but it was just for work on the resort’s upper levels.
Part of this update to the lobby will include a new lobby bar. 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 resort’s tea room area will also receive refurbishment work, though more details will be shared at a later date. Resort amenities like dining and the pools will remain open throughout the refurbishment.
The concept art released shows new carpeting with Victorian-inspired borders and scrollwork, with hand-drawn florals inspired by turn-of-the-century botanical studies. The area will also get updated furnishings with rich finishes and brass accents alongside “cozy” fabrics. The lobby will also see “a few playful touches inspired by Florida’s natural beauty and Victorian decorating trends.”
As previously announced, work is set to begin this month and will take place through November 2025. Due to the renovations, the gingerbread display will not return for the 2025 holiday season.
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