Representatives from Fairmont and Delfino Resorts made the announcement at a press conference held prior to start of the 2008 Bob Hope Chrysler Classic. The development consortium behind Avanterra, a $2.5 billion environmentally progressive, master-planned community, is best known for its signature Delfino resort communities along America’s Gulf Coast region.
The move marks Fairmont’s first entry into the Palm Springs market. The hotel development will be in two phases.
Chris Cahill, President and Chief Operating Officer of Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, said, “The environmentally progressive attributes that make Avanterra unique are a wonderful complement to our own philosophy of operational sustainability and responsible tourism within the hotel industry. This project further extends Fairmont's strong presence in California and allows us to provide luxury-seeking travelers with enriching and memorable experiences reflective of this community.”
Owner Representative Francis A. Wong, Chairman and CEO of Genesis Hotel Development, who negotiated the deal for the development team, said, “Fairmont’s best-in-class service has re-defined the luxury hotel guest experience. Its projects have an unrivaled presence in every market the brand serves, and Avanterra Palm Desert will be no exception. We are delighted to welcome them to the Coachella Valley.”
It is expected that ground for the initial phase will be broken on the nearly $200 million project in 2009. When completed, the Fairmont Avanterra, Palm Desert will establish its presence alongside the Classic Club, opposite Avanterra’s pedestrian oriented village, which will include close to one million square feet of experiential retail space, integrated work lofts, LEED certified office buildings, condominiums, amphitheater, park space, planetarium, walking trails and more.
According to the hotel operator, Avanterra’s master plan is a veritable blueprint for the future of desert living, and of sustainable development across California and elsewhere.
Rania Deimezi - Wednesday, January 16, 2008