Uncovering the 138-year-old blueprint for crafting an ideal summer retreat
The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, Michigan, a historic summer destination for many families, has recently undergone a significant renovation. Led by Grand Hotel President David Jurcak, along with Sebastian Varney and Rudy Saunders from Dorothy Draper & Company, the renovation aimed to celebrate the hotel's 138-year history and preserve its architectural integrity for future generations.
The main focus of the renovation was the hotel's main dining room, parlor, and the Baroque Bar. In the main dining room, the Jonquil walls were refreshed, new window treatments were installed, and the signature upholstery on the dining chairs received a new look featuring a bouquet of yellow and pink tulips. A new carpet runner in the walkway features tulip bouquets on a summer cane pattern, adding a touch of elegance to the space.
The Baroque Bar, formerly known as the Audubon Bar, was reworked and renamed, paying homage to Old New York. The paneling and floor-to-ceiling bookshelves were lacquered for six weeks by DiBlasi Painting of New York to achieve the perfect finish. The bar features emerald greens, deep reds, blacks, golds, and intricate fretwork, creating an opulent atmosphere.
The parlor, a popular gathering spot for guests, also received an update. The dark green tones were replaced with "Huron Sunrise" color, bringing a warm and inviting atmosphere to the space. A new mural was commissioned to anchor the parlor's wall, flowing seamlessly into the historic murals on the east and west walls. The iconic red geranium carpet in the parlor's entryway was slightly revised to include three massive blooms, adding a fresh touch to the traditional design.
The team's direction for the renovated spaces reflects their commitment to celebrating the hotel's history and the memories it holds. This approach is a nod to Varney's father, Carleton Varney, who entered into a partnership with the Grand Hotel in the late 1970s and established the hotel's iconic decor. Carleton Varney's inspiration for the hotel's decor was rooted in creating summer memories for guests.
David Jurcak, the current Grand Hotel president, shares a similar vision. Having grown up traveling the world, he found that historic properties told the best stories. His vision is to honor the past while restoring and enhancing the hotel for the next 100 years and beyond.
The Grand Hotel and Dorothy Draper & Company also plan to refresh the 388 uniquely decorated guest rooms in future renovations. Joy Callaway, an international bestselling author residing in Charlotte, North Carolina, is eagerly awaiting her next visit to experience the updated rooms and the hotel's continued celebration of its rich history.
