San Antonio's River Walk Jewel, Hotel Contessa, Completes Property Refurbishments

Premier River Walk property enhanced guest suites, meeting space and public areas

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. April 22, 2015

SAN ANTONIO, TX. - April 22, 2015. The iconic, AAA Four Diamond 265 all-suite Hotel Contessa, located on the banks of San Antonio's famed River Walk, has completed the final phase of its extensive refurbishment. Director of Sales & Marketing Jerry Jensen made the announcement.

Hotel Contessa's new look reflects the modern interpretation of 20th century Spanish style, drawing inspiration from some of Spain's most revered artists such as Gaudi, Picasso and Miro. Designed by hospitality interior design firm, Dawson Design Associates of Seattle, WA., the new aesthetic of Hotel Contessa combines the modernism of Barcelona and the eclecticism and natural setting of the River Walk. The interior design celebrates the rich heritage of old Spain in a colorfully romantic and relaxed atmosphere.
"By choreographing a fusion of minimalistic lines, crisp whites, rich contrast and lush color against a backdrop of contemporary art, our goal was to create spaces that reflect the richness of the region with a playful nod to its Spanish heritage," explains Andrea Dawson Sheehan, chief executive office and art director of Dawson Design Associates, Inc.

The project commenced in the spring of 2014 with enhancements to Contessa's existing 10,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space, including the 2,277 square foot Contessa Ballroom and its 10 conference rooms. Vibrant new color palettes of subtle grays, Mediterranean blues and shades of terra cotta all coincide in different patterns and styles throughout meeting rooms, adding an elegant, yet modern touch in keeping with the hotel's Mediterranean architecture and ambiance. The refreshed meeting rooms and foyers received new carpeting, wall covering and paint, in addition to custom light fixtures designed by local iron and glass artisans. Existing features include complimentary Wi-Fi, ergonomic chairs, glare-free lighting, soundproofing and conference tables with a non-reflective, hard writing surface. Many of Contessa's break-out rooms feature scenic views or terraces framed by towering cypress and live oak trees that line the River Walk.

Known for its oversized, luxurious, all-suite accommodations, many of Contessa's guest suites were extensively renewed with new carpeting, sleeper sofas, new floor lamps, light fixtures and window treatments. Additionally, new bed throws, artwork, coffee and dining tables, dressers, TV stands, night stands, desks and credenzas highlight the renovated suites.

"Hotel Contessa's collection of luxury, spacious suites were all artistically designed to provide a guest experience that would capture the energy and attitude of a chic 'home away from home' combined with the sophisticated international vibe of a boutique hotel," said Sheehan.

About Hotel Contessa

Nestled in the heart of downtown San Antonio on the banks of the famed River Walk, the AAA Four Diamond, newly renovated Hotel Contessa reflects the rich heritage of 20th century Spain, embracing its unique architecture, hospitality and cuisine. The 12-story hotel features 265 luxurious suites, 10,000 square feet of meeting and event space, a Woodhouse Day Spa, fitness center and a heated, outdoor rooftop swimming pool. Its signature, award-winning restaurant, Las Ramblas, features authentic Spanish Mediterranean cuisine, while the hip Cork Bar offers an array of signature, hand-crafted cocktails and scenic outdoor patio overlooking the River Walk. Hotel Contessa was also ranked by Conde Nast Traveler as one of the 'Top 100 Hotels in the World' on the publication's coveted Gold List for 2012. Hotel Contessa is managed by Benchmark Resorts & Hotels™ and is located at 306 W. Market Street. For reservations and information visit www.thehotelcontessa.com or call 866-435-0900. To become a fan on Facebook visit www.Facebook.com/hotelcontessa or follow on Twitter at www.twitter.com/hotelcontessa.

About Benchmark Hospitality International®

Benchmark Hospitality International® is a recognized global leader in the management and marketing of resorts, hotels and conference centers. The company's two distinctive portfolios of properties, Benchmark Resorts & Hotels® and Personal Luxury Resorts & Hotels®, represent the finest in guest-dedicated hospitality in unique destinations across the United States, in the Caribbean and Japan. As a founding member of the International Association of Conference Centers, Benchmark Conference Centers® maintain the highest standards for certification in meeting excellence. Benchmark Hospitality was launched in 1980 as an independent company and today operates worldwide from offices in The Woodlands (Houston), Texas, and regional offices in New Jersey, Washington State, Japan and Chile. For additional company information visit www.benchmarkhospitality.com. To become a fan on Facebook, visit www.facebook.com/BenchmarkResortsandHotels, or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/BenchmarkHotels.

About Dawson Design Associates, Inc.

Established in Seattle, Washington in 1987 by Andrea Dawson Sheehan, Dawson Design Associates is a full-service interior design and interior architecture firm specializing in renovations, repositionings and new construction in the hospitality industry. DDA's mission is to design hotels that are recognized for their creative and distinctive styles and proven by their success and profitability. The firm is consistently ranked amongst the top design firms in the world and maintains a constantly growing list of awards and international press. DDA carried this impeccable reputation and their long term relationships within the industry with them into the EMEA market with the addition of their London Studio in late 2012, located on Eel Pie Island. For additional information, visit us at www.dawsondesignassociates.com. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/DawsonDesignAssociates or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/DDA__Inc.

Media Contact:
Carol Baetzel
CBPR
602-931-5422
[email protected]