The Bellevue, part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, recently opened in Philadelphia following extensive renovations to revitalize the historic landmark.
Originally established in 1904 by George C. Boldt, The Bellevue, colloquially known as the “Grand Dame of Broad Street,” has long been a symbol of Philadelphia’s architectural grandeur and cultural heritage. Major debuts include the unveiling of 184 newly restored guest rooms, including 39 suites, as well as The Sporting Club, a 100,000-square-foot wellness facility.
“This is just the beginning of a journey that honors over 120 years of history,” says Reginald Archambault, general manager of The Bellevue, part of the Unbound Collection by Hyatt. “Generations of Philadelphians have memories with the property, and we are excited and honored to bring them and visitors alike the next chapter of The Bellevue.”
Led by owner Dean Adler, the team of collaborators appointed Tony Machado, head of design for LUCID—Highgate's in-house design and construction studio—to oversee the different teams involved with the renovation. Leading the interior design of the guestrooms and public spaces, firm Ward + Gray aimed to honor the original bones of the hotel while introducing a modern yet historically-minted take on the opulent design of the early 1900s. Designer Anouska Hempel and Philadelphia’s Grace Song Studio, among others, contributed to the project.
“When designing the next chapter of The Bellevue’s story, we worked closely with the Preservation Alliance of Greater Philadelphia to ensure the reimagined spaces respected the building’s rich heritage,” said Machado. “The design honors the hotel’s storied legacy, including preserving the original electric panel from Thomas Edison and the original lobby clock restored by a local clock master. Always having served as a social hub, The Bellevue offers a home away from home—a space where guests can create their own stories, surrounded by the echoes of the past and the promise of new experiences.”
Inspiration
The Bellevue began its renovation by unveiling its collection of 184 guestrooms, including 39 suites. Ward + Gray worked to restore the history of the hotel to the guest rooms, drawing inspiration from the French Renaissance movement.
To create symmetry and classical order, the reception desk in the lobby was relocated between two columns. The reception desk, set underneath the iconic four-time-zone lobby clock, is designed to have a cinematic feel with a series of tasseled keys at its center.
The Bellevue’s public spaces were updated to attract weddings, galas and events, with more than 30,000 square feet of event spaces across three floors. The Sporting Club at The Bellevue, meanwhile, is a 100,000-square-foot lifestyle and wellness destination. The space has an indoor track, pickleball and squash courts, club spaces with bars and lounges, coworking areas, an outdoor terrace and a lap pool. Hotel guests have full access to The Sporting Club throughout their stay.
The Residences at The Bellevue include 155 luxury rental apartments are spread across seven residential floors, showcasing a variety of floor plans, including studios and one-, two- and three-bedroom suites, each with hardwood floors and stainless steel appliances.