Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel starts 2nd phase of renovations

In case you haven't been inside the former Embassy Suites in South Lake Tahoe lately, it sounds like it might be time to do so.

The Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel just finished $5M in renovations and has started the next phase, a $3M project that will add alpine mountain ambiance touches to its premium and balcony suites, lobby, banquet rooms and pool area.

In a gesture aimed squarely at exceeding customer expectations, Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel management sought input from guests. Results from visitors and suggestions from staff laid the foundation for this round of renovations, said Bill Cottrill, the resort’s chief managing officer, adding that the move to independent from corporate management has also resulted in an employee culture shift.

“We went into this with an open mind, asking guests real questions about their experiences. Whether it’s carpeting, fixtures, furniture and lighting in their suites, to the overall atmosphere as they walk in the door and through the hotel, we wanted to know and they told us what they saw,” said Cottrill. “Many of our staff have worked more than 20 years at the resort, the loyalty has always been there, but there is new pride in our independence and their input is helping to shape our vision.”

The renovations at the Stateline area hotel include:

— New dual-sided fireplace in atrium with sofas and board games
— New sofa sleepers, love seats, and ottomans in the premium and specialty suites.
— Dual sided fireplaces added to the four balcony suites.
— Banquet rooms to be outfitted with new ceiling enhancements, carpet, 800 banquet chairs, linens, sound system, wallpaper, enhanced lighting, portable bars, digital reader boards.
— Lighting and seating were noted in the feedback among guests attending weddings and receptions. Guests asked for and the resort will deliver decorative 300 Chiavari chairs for wedding receptions and banquet events.
— New carpet, wallpaper, and lighting for the lobby and front desk area to match recent upgrades.
— Poolside indoor and outdoor lounge furniture, new decking, mosaic tile and wood trim.

Upgrades from the first $5 million phase included renovations to all 400 suites with new 42-inch flat screen televisions in the living room and in the bedroom, 300-thread count linens, new headboards, nightstands, wet bars, vanities, carpet, end tables and dressers, bath upgrades, granite countertops, new mini refrigerators and microwave ovens.