The Tribune

By NATARIO McKENZIE

Tribune Business Reporter

nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net

THE One & Only Ocean Club’s historic Hartford Wing is set to undergo major renovation with the planned enhancements set to “raise the bar” on ultra-luxury in The Bahamas.

Kerzner International, the luxury resort’s operator, released a statement yesterday regarding the scope of the renovations, although no mention was given as to how many jobs would be impacted as a result. The operator has stated previously however that “any changes will be minimal”.

The improvements will include completely renovated and expanded guest rooms and suites in the Hartford Wing and expansion of dining options within Dune restaurant by Jean-Georges Vongerichten. 

“Once completed, the resort will retain what guests have always loved - a sense of exclusive privacy in a relaxed setting with a beachfront unsurpassed in The Bahamas. Guests will also discover many new luxury experiences, along with a heightened level of service,” Kerzner International said yesterday.

Kerzner International noted that the entire Hartford Wing of the Paradise Island resort is being renovated, with guest rooms increasing in size by 110 square feet offering an expansive terrace or balcony with views of the ocean and lush gardens. 

“In addition, each room will have a complete makeover including new furnishings, fabrics and colour schemes that amplify the distinctive palette of The Bahamas - cerulean blues, aquamarine and the bleached white of Bahamian sand. The bathrooms will be completely transformed with stellar white and blue de savoie marble throughout, plus modernised separate bath and rain shower, along with double vanities. 

“The Hartford Courtyard will be completely redesigned to allow for a luxurious relaxation experience for guests. As always, to underscore One & Only Ocean Club’s unique atmosphere, every guest is served by a butler whose role is to cater to each guest’s comfort, with intuitive anticipation of guest needs and desires.

“Dining will also be redefined with new twists added to Dune by Michelin-starred Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, a long-time favourite for guests and local residents alike. In addition to the current dining experience at Dune, One & Only Ocean Club will expand both the restaurant and the Dune Deck, not only enabling more guests to enjoy the incredible sea views but also expanding the culinary choices for guests and residents.

“The extensive renovation is in collaboration with world-class design consultants HKS Architects (HKS) and Jeffrey Beers International (JBI).”

Ocean Club’s general manager John Conway revealed to Tribune Business in January that the  historic Hartford Wing could be set for a major overhaul, with “serious discussions” underway on whether to initiate those plans this year.    

The Ocean Club was opened in 1962 as a 52-room hotel by Huntington Hartford II, heir to the Great Atlantic and Pacific Tea Company fortune. Some $10 million was invested in the project. The Ocean Club was then sold to Kerzner International in 1994, and renamed One & Only Ocean Club in 2002 under the latter’s re-branding exercise.

The property has 105 units, featuring luxury suites and villas, with guests served by personal butlers. It sits on a 36-acre beachfront site, with amenities including Dune restaurant, two outdoor pools, spa, fitness centre, six tennis courts, two meeting space venues, and several outdoor event venues.