Palm Springs, CA, July 18, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Renowned Palm Springs Architect James Cioffi has been hired as the architect of record for the significant remodel of Hotel Zoso, tranforming the property into the much anticipated Hard Rock Hotel Palm Springs set to open this Fall.
"We're excited to be a part of this project and to help bring the dynamic energy of the Hard Rock brand to downtown Palm Springs," says Architect James Cioffi.
Cioffi, who defines his architectural style as "this-century-modern," says his design plan for the remodel is sensitive to the structure's strong, iconic 1980's architecture. Cioffi's main focus has been on the pool courtyard which serves as the centerpiece of the hotel.
"Hard Rock is renowned for it's limitless design and musical integration in our properties, and we look forward to working with James Cioffi on this iconic hotel in California," said Joe Emanuele, Hard Rock Vice President for Design and Development. "James is the perfect addition to our team, bringing local flare and unparalleled modern design experience to Hard Rock Hotel Palm Springs."
All interior design is at the direction of Charles Doell, owner of Mister Important Design, an award-winning design studio based in Oakland, California.
"We're thrilled to have a local architect on board for the project combined with a renowned urban based designer," says Hector Moreno, Vice President and General Manager of Hard Rock Hotel Palm Springs. "James' expertise in creating exciting, contemporary architecture is a perfect match for the renovation and re-branding. And Charles' creativity and interesting, unique design elements will produce the ultimate Hard Rock vibe."
The pool and courtyard areas will become more fluid and dynamic, with covered cabanas, an updated pool bar and a performance area for DJs and live performances. The desert lifestyle will be further enhanced by opening up the main lobby to create an indoor/outdoor experience for the pool area and the restaurant patio. Exterior renovations will focus primarily on the Indian Canyon front entrance, where iconic Hard Rock branding will be added.
Cioffi is known locally for his "new desert modernist" architectural designs, evident in his prized work found throughout the Palm Springs area. Some of his noteworthy landmarks include the Pinnacle homes, Palm Springs International Airport Taxi building, Ralph's Center, and Smoketree Commons. Mister Important design has recently designed the remodel of the W Hotel in San Diego, the restaurant "Valendora" at the Rancho Valencia hotel in Rancho Santa Fe, and Chambers Eat and Drink located in the Phoenix Hotel in San Francisco, which received a "Best Lounge" award from the American Institute of Architects and was recognized as one of the top 10 US hotel restaurants by Open Table and USA Today.
Hard Rock Hotel Palm Springs is projected to open Fall 2013. There will be 163 rooms, over 20,000 square feet of ballroom and banquet facility space, and the world famous Rock Shop® featuring Hard Rock's iconic merchandise.
About Hard Rock Hotel Palm Springs
Hard Rock Hotel Palm Springs will add to Hard Rock International's 174 globally recognized venues in 54 countries. In collaboration with Kittridge Hotel Management, the resort will reflect the famed Hard Rock brand and serve as an entertainment and leisure destination. With 163 rooms, Hard Rock Hotel Palm Springs, located downtown Palm Springs, will be the brand's second lifestyle hotel in Southern California. With year-round sunshine, the Palm Springs location will reflect the Hard Rock brand within the iconic desert resort lifestyle. Hard Rock Hotel Palm Springs will be true to its musical roots while taking a cue from Palm Springs' established scene of rich music traditions, such as the Coachella and Stagecoach Music Festivals, with outstanding live entertainment. The hotel is projected to open Fall 2013. For more information about Hard Rock International, visit www.HRHPalmSprings.com.
About Hard Rock International
With a total of 174 venues in 54 countries, including 138 cafes, 17 hotels and 7 casinos, Hard Rock International (HRI) is one of the most globally recognized companies. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world's greatest collection of music memorabilia, which is displayed at its locations around the globe. Hard Rock is also known for its collectible fashion and music-related merchandise, Hard Rock Live performance venues and an award-winning website. HRI owns the global trademark for all Hard Rock brands. The company owns, operates and franchises Cafes in iconic cities including London, New York, San Francisco, Sydney and Dubai. HRI also owns, licenses and/or manages hotel/casino properties worldwide. Destinations include the company's two most successful Hotel and Casino properties in Tampa and Hollywood, Fl., both owned and operated by HRI parent company The Seminole Tribe of Florida., as well as other exciting locations including Bali, Biloxi, Chicago, Cancun, Las Vegas, San Diego and Singapore. Upcoming new Hard Rock Cafe locations include San José, Chennai, Istanbul and Tenerife. New Hard Rock Hotel projects include Daytona Beach, Palm Springs, Aruba, Riviera Maya, Abu Dhabi and Shenzhen and Haikou in China. New Hard Rock Casino projects in development include Hungary and Northfield, OH. For more information on Hard Rock International, visit www.hardrock.com.
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