by Mia Taylor
Last updated: 6:00 PM ET, Mon April 2, 2018
Originally opened in 1927, Virginia Beach's Cavalier Hotel was an instant landmark in its oceanfront community, significantly changing the area's social scene during its heyday.
A string of U.S. presidents and iconic celebrities visited the property over the years including Elizabeth Taylor, Judy Garland and Frank Sinatra.
It was also a major venue for numerous performers during the Big Band-era such as Benny Goodman and Glenn Miller.
That glamorous and storied history was top of mind during The Cavalier's recently completed a four-year, $85 million renovation.
Every detail of the 85-room Virginia Beach resort, which was inspired by Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, has been meticulously restored to reveal architectural elements and design features from its past, while also incorporating modern-day luxury amenities.
"The Cavalier Hotel represents an exciting rebirth of the Virginia Beach oceanfront offering unparalleled luxury and amenities not seen since the heyday of the historic hotel," Gold Key | PHR CEO Bruce Thompson said in a statement. "We are excited for guests to enjoy this very special location - where old world charm meets present-day comforts and southern hospitality - be it for an oceanfront respite, a night out for dinner and drinks, or a celebration."
In 2014 Gold Key | PHR began the extensive renovation and restoration of the property, which is now the latest luxury class member of Marriott's rapidly expanding Autograph Collection.
Perched atop a hill overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the hotel's entrance looks much as it did back in 1927 with the original four-column portico and brick porte-cochere. The lobby, featuring soaring ceilings, sparkling fixtures and ornate architectural moldings, also captures the influence of the roaring 1920s and the jazz age.
Each of the hotel's 62 guest rooms and 23 suites was redesigned as part of the recently completed renovations. That effort included adding plush fabrics, designer accents and new finishes. Rooms were also outfitted with claw-foot tubs and marble baths.
Suites have been individually designed with historically precise materials to reflect a famous guest or notable event from the hotel's past.
The property's famed indoor saltwater pool and glass rotunda were also given a facelift. Surrounding balconies, architectural iron detailing and the pool's tiled monogram 'The Cavalier' were all refurbished.
The Crystal Ballroom meanwhile, which once hosted big band performers and huge galas, has been returned to its original size and glory featuring tall ceilings and large historic windows facing the front of the hotel. In addition, state-of-the-art meetings and events spaces have been added to the property.
Another new addition to the hotel is the SeaHill Spa, a luxe, full-service wellness destination that provides treatments with full views of the Virginia coastline. The spa includes nine treatment rooms, hydrotherapy suites and a co-ed reflection room. It will offer one-of-a-kind treatments such as Bourbon facials that draw upon products from the surrounding community.
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