Cast Members Celebrate Disney’s Wilderness Lodge 30th Anniversary

Exquisite Surfaces, a company specializing in providing stone, wood, cement, and ceramic tiles, is celebrating its 20th anniversary. Founded by Paula Nataf in 1997, the company has grown from a small showroom in Los Angeles to operate six showrooms across the United States, with a seventh opening soon in Miami. The business is a family affair, with Paula and her sons, Franck and Alexis, at its core. While Paula initially handled everything from shipping to custom mosaic creation, her sons later joined to manage operations and customer service, respectively. The Nataf family attributes their success to strong, personalized customer service and transparent communication with clients. To commemorate two decades in business, Exquisite Surfaces has launched the E/S 20 collection, inviting 20 prominent American designers to create an 8x8-inch cement tile. This eclectic group of designers includes names like Lisa Eisner, Kelly Lamb, Suzanne Tick, Michelle Nussbaumer, and Jamie Bush, reflecting the company's established reputation within the design industry. These commemorative tiles are handcrafted in a factory near Fez, Morocco, where artisans use traditional techniques, including creating metal molds and pouring colored liquid cement. Each tile is made by hand and takes approximately eight minutes to produce. The company's operations in Morocco are overseen by Gilles, a long-term associate who ensures the quality and production of the tiles. The Nataf family emphasizes the importance of strong relationships not only with clients but also with suppliers and artisans, which are crucial for sourcing unique materials and managing complex logistics. Their genuine passion for materials is evident in Paula's intuitive ability to discover new and innovative products, such as aged limestone or blue oak, which significantly influenced American interior design trends and boosted sales. Exquisite Surfaces has collaborated with notable design studios, such as LA-based Commune, which has enhanced the brand's cachet. Beyond commercial success, the company is also committed to sustainability through its Choose to Reuse initiative, launched last year. This program focuses on researching and educating the construction industry on the proper use of salvaged materials, emphasizing that materials are too precious for a single life. Five percent of all sales from the E/S 20 collection will support this initiative, reflecting the company's belief in the inherent honesty and value of quality materials. #InteriorDesign #ExquisiteSurfaces #CementTiles #MoroccanCraftsmanship #DesignAnniversary #TileDesign #SustainableMaterials #PaulaNataf #AmericanInteriors

Walt Disney World has confirmed the discontinuation of the Pirate Rooms at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, with no immediate plans for a replacement theme. This announcement came during a travel agent webcast for 2023 vacation packages, where the rooms were noticeably absent from the booking roster for dates extending from January to October 2023, and are now unavailable for the remainder of 2022 as well. The Pirate Rooms have historically been a contentious topic among guests due to their remote location within the resort, their small double beds, and uncomfortable, thin mattresses, which led to them being considered a functional downgrade despite their higher rack rate. Disney previously converted this section of Caribbean Beach into Pirate Rooms to enhance the appeal of the remote Trinidad area. Despite their initial drawbacks, the Pirate Rooms received several enhancements over time. The introduction of the Disney Skyliner gondola system placed a hub station directly across the water from the Trinidad section, significantly improving transportation accessibility. Additionally, the opening of Spyglass Grill provided a convenient dining option for guests in this area. A soft goods refurbishment that concluded early the previous year further improved the rooms, introducing thicker mattresses and refreshing other furnishings, making them a more viable option for guests. However, it appears that these improvements were insufficient to maintain guest satisfaction, or perhaps Disney has other plans for the valuable real estate. The article speculates on the future of the Trinidad area, proposing several possibilities. One theory is that Walt Disney World may simply renovate these rooms into standard accommodations, recognizing that the combined benefits of the Skyliner and Spyglass Grill have made a themed "crutch" unnecessary. Another, more ambitious, speculation suggests that the location is being eyed for an entirely new hotel development, possibly a Disney Vacation Club (DVC) property or another tower hotel akin to Gran Destino Tower at Coronado Springs Resort. This theory is supported by the prime location, proximity to the Skyliner, and the potential to share existing infrastructure, which aligns with Disney's recent pattern of expanding existing resorts rather than developing entirely new parcels. Past rumors of DVC expansion in this area also lend credibility to this idea. However, the viability of a new DVC project at this specific time is questioned, given current DVC expansions at Grand Floridian and Polynesian resorts, and unsold points at Riviera Resort. An alternative, and perhaps more realistic, possibility is a comprehensive room reimagining for Caribbean Beach Resort as a whole, starting with the Trinidad section, to address general wear and tear in many rooms. The absence of official refurbishment announcements and the complete removal of Pirate Rooms from booking channels, rather than just marking them as unavailable, hints at a significant change. Ultimately, while the immediate future remains uncertain, the strategic location of the Trinidad section strongly suggests that Walt Disney World has substantial plans for this prime parcel, whether it's a simple renovation or a larger resort expansion. #DisneyWorld #CaribbeanBeachResort #PirateRooms #HotelRenovation #DisneyVacationClub #Skyliner #ResortExpansion #WaltDisneyWorld #ThemeParkNews

This article offers a detailed tour of a Concierge One Bedroom Suite with an Extended Verandah aboard the Disney Treasure cruise ship, categorized as a 2A stateroom on Deck 12. This expansive suite measures 1,031 square feet, including its private balcony, and is designed to accommodate up to five guests. It features a king-sized bed in the bedroom, a double sleeper sofa, and a single pull-down bed in the living area. The suite's entrance opens into a small hallway, where a convenient bathroom and a closet are situated on one side, complemented by a large mirror on the opposing wall. The closet provides ample storage with top shelves for life jackets, a mini-safe, four drawers, and hanging space. The adjacent bathroom includes a toilet, a sink with a lighted mirror, a towel rack, and built-in shelving, alongside a walk-in shower. The living room area is furnished with a round wooden table surrounded by four chairs featuring green fabric padding, a small sofa against the wall, and an accent chair with a coordinating table. The flooring transitions from wood to a tan carpet with a tribal print, subtly incorporating hidden Mickey Mouse symbols. A marble-topped counter along the back wall serves as a functional space, equipped with a glass shelf, a room phone, a menu, and napkins, with cabinets beneath for additional storage. Opposite this, an entertainment center with drawers, a glass cabinet, and a wall-mounted TV completes the communal space. Art pieces, including one depicting Simba and Pumbaa from The Lion King, adorn the walls, adding to the suite's thematic decor. Moving into the bedroom, a split wall separates a vanity area with a large mirror and a smaller table mirror from a cabinet featuring four drawers and three shelves, topped with an art piece. The bedroom's highlight is a king-sized bed, accessible from both sides, with a Lion King-themed headboard showcasing Pride Rock, and a TV mounted at the foot of the bed. A separate closet area off the bedroom provides more storage, complete with complimentary robes, a central section with shelving, drawers, and another mini-safe. Guests are also offered a complimentary shoe shine service, a thoughtful detail for concierge-level occupants. The master bathroom, located across from the closet, boasts dual sinks and a large soaking tub. A striking mosaic mural above the tub illustrates the Pride Lands with Simba and Mufasa, enhancing the immersive experience. The bathroom also includes a separate toilet area and a walk-in shower. The extended verandah, a key feature of this suite, offers substantial outdoor seating, including chaises, benches, tables, and chairs, providing guests with panoramic ocean views. #DisneyTreasure #CruiseShipSuite #ConciergeSuite #ExtendedVerandah #LuxuryTravel #DisneyCruiseLine #StateroomTour #TheLionKingDecor

The Disney Wish, which debuted in 2022, introduced a novel feature for Disney Cruise Line: themed stateroom hallways. These hallways are designed to immerse guests in a fairytale atmosphere even before they enter their rooms, with each style featuring unique artwork, carpeting, and character-inspired lighting. There are four primary Disney Wish stateroom and hallway themes, along with specific themes for the Royal Suites and the Wish Tower Suite. A popular tradition on Disney Cruise Line ships involves guests decorating their stateroom doors and participating in fan-led "fish extender" gift exchanges. On the Disney Wish, the door hooks are specially designed to fit each hallway theme and are affectionately nicknamed “Wish extenders,” allowing guests to continue this tradition with thematic flair. The article provides a detailed tour of each themed hallway, highlighting the visual elements, character touches, and associated stateroom categories. The 'Cinderella' and 'Frozen' themed hallways are located on Decks 2, 6, and 7. These areas exude classic Disney elegance, resembling a royal palace. The carpeting features soft icy blue tones with subtle swirls, hints of pumpkins and vines, and snowflakes, referencing Cinderella's transformation and the icy world of Frozen. Artwork near stairways and elevators depicts scenes from both films. Staterooms on these decks are themed to either Cinderella or Frozen. The 'Wish extenders' are shaped like pumpkin carriages, and the lighting throughout the hallways features 'Cinderella'-themed cut-outs, casting a magical glow. 'Frozen'-themed staterooms include a mural of Elsa’s ice palace, while 'Cinderella'-themed staterooms showcase her magical pumpkin carriage and iconic castle. These themes are available in various stateroom types, including Standard Inside, Deluxe Oceanview, Deluxe Family Oceanview, Deluxe Oceanview with Verandah, and Deluxe Family Oceanview with Verandah. Decks 8 and 9 host the 'Princess and the Frog' and 'Sleeping Beauty' themed hallways. The decor here evokes an enchanted wood and a lush swamp, with carpets and artwork featuring twisted, thorned vines, forest creatures, and water lilies, alluding to Tiana's bayou and Aurora's enchanted forest. Paintings of Tiana and Aurora are displayed in stairway and elevator areas. The 'Wish extenders' on these decks are shaped like the owl friend from 'Sleeping Beauty,' and the lighting creates a woodland ambiance with flickering leaves and fairy magic. 'Princess and the Frog'-themed staterooms feature decor inspired by Tiana’s bayou adventures, while 'Sleeping Beauty'-themed staterooms include a mural of Flora, Fauna, and Merryweather with woodland animals. These stateroom types also span Standard Inside, Deluxe Oceanview, Deluxe Family Oceanview, Deluxe Oceanview with Verandah, Deluxe Family Oceanview with Verandah, and Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom. For those who prefer an aquatic theme, Decks 10 and 11 feature 'The Little Mermaid' and 'Moana' themed hallways. These corridors showcase vibrant carpeting with swirls of seaweed greens, coral pinks, and bubbly blues, along with shells, bubbles, and Moana’s wayfinding stars embedded in the design. The 'Wish extenders' are stylized nautilus shells. The lighting includes tiny silhouettes of Ariel and her tail fin, creating a dreamy, underwater reef sensation. 'The Little Mermaid'-themed staterooms immerse guests in Ariel’s world with prints of her at play and a mural of her underwater castle. 'Moana'-themed staterooms reflect the spirit of the ocean with a mural of Te Fiti and a playful Moana print. These rooms are available in Standard Inside, Deluxe Oceanview with Verandah, Deluxe Family Oceanview with Verandah, and Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom categories. The Concierge Decks 12 and 13 are dedicated to a 'Tangled' theme. These hallways are adorned with shining suns, lanterns, and the Sundrop flower. The carpeting features emblems of the kingdom of Corona, providing a royal welcome. The 'Wish extenders' are gleaming sun symbols, and the lighting fixtures include silhouettes of glittering lanterns, inspired by Rapunzel’s story. 'Tangled'-themed concierge accommodations boast a rich color palette, original headboard murals, and framed artwork. Stateroom types in this theme include Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah and Concierge 1-Bedroom Suite with Verandah, with the latter even featuring a Pascal statue. This detailed thematic approach throughout the Disney Wish hallways and staterooms enhances the guest experience by extending the magic of Disney stories beyond the public areas of the ship and into the private accommodations, creating a cohesive and immersive environment for all passengers. #DisneyWish #CruiseLine #ThemedHallways #StateroomDesign #DisneyCharacters #InteriorDecor #MagicalVoyage #FamilyTravel

The Seattle Children’s Theatre (SCT) has initiated its 50th season following a substantial $4.7 million renovation of its Seattle Center facilities. This project focused on both aesthetic improvements and structural changes to enhance the overall theater-going experience for all patrons. The renovation was guided by the principle that access, inclusion, and a sense of belonging are crucial for visitors, aiming to remove all barriers to entry and participation in its programming. SCT's Deputy Managing Director, Cessalee Smith-Stovall, emphasized the importance of ensuring visitors feel included, allowing them to engage fully with performances and provide feedback. The renovation is part of SCT’s semicentennial season theme, “50 Years of Good Humans,” celebrating its history from its founding in 1975 by passionate volunteers and initial funding from the Woodland Park Children’s Zoo and the City of Seattle. Despite early challenges, including a period when city funding ceased in 1983, SCT evolved, under artistic director Linda Hartzell, into the second-largest professional children’s theater in the United States. It found a permanent home in the Charlotte Martin Theatre in 1993, later expanding with the Eve Alvord Theatre in 1995. Over five decades, SCT has produced nearly 300 plays and entertained more than four million children. The recent renovation, conceptualized during the COVID-19 pandemic, involved a meticulous reimagining of the space. Key improvements include new doors for the Eve Alvord Theatre, designed for better accessibility for those with mobility constraints and for easier movement of set pieces. Throughout the building, new custom-made carpet, featuring the topography of the Pacific Northwest with rivers (green), stars (yellow), and the theater’s signature hot pink, was installed. Artist Juliana Kang Robinson was commissioned to create a mural titled "HanSan River of Stars" at the entrance, depicting a mountain with aqua, teal, and pink edges, and stairs leading up to swirling golden stars, symbolizing dreams and imagination reaching for the sky. This theme is further reinforced by two new ceiling oculi depicting stars, placed outside both theaters. The most significant physical transformation occurred in the lobby, where five non-functional columns were removed to create a more open meeting space for gift shops, concessions, and children’s activities. The main staircase was also repositioned to improve flow and reduce congestion. A core aspect of the renovation was enhancing accessibility and inclusion. In the Charlotte Martin Theatre, the seating was reconfigured to include an accessibility row accommodating up to six wheelchairs and their companions. Handrails were installed along the aisles, and two new family restrooms and a wellness room for breastfeeding mothers and adult changing access were added on the second floor. Televisions were also installed in lobby areas, enabling parents to continue following performances if they need to step out with their children. The upcoming season at SCT features a diverse range of productions, including "Cat Kid Comic Club: The Musical," "Havana Hop," "SCT’s The Snow Queen," "Aesop’s Fantastic Family Fables," "The Hula Hoopin’ Queen," and "The Pa’akai We Bring." Additionally, SCT is offering its first digital production since 2022, “The Girl Who Swallowed a Cactus,” in partnership with the From-Home Fest, allowing patrons to watch live via Zoom. These programming choices, combined with the comprehensive renovations, aim to create a welcoming and imaginative environment for all young theatergoers and their families in Seattle. #SeattleChildrensTheatre #TheaterRenovation #AccessibilityImprovements #ChildrensProgramming #CulturalInstitution #SeattleArts #CommunityEngagement #InclusiveDesign #PerformingArts

This article details the design and aesthetic choices made for a private hunting lodge located in rural Louisiana, north of Baton Rouge. The project involved a collaboration between Baton Rouge-based architect Mark Matthews, design consultant Allyson Hicks of Allyson Hicks Design Consulting, and contractors Ryan Crum and Noah Wilson of Waterfront Custom Homes. The primary goal was to create a retreat that functions both as a family getaway and a hunting destination for friends, blending rustic elements with a refined, timeless appeal. The lodge is designed for large groups, featuring a main living area with a vaulted ceiling and antique beams, a casual dining space, and a kitchen accessible through an arched brick opening. In addition to a large primary bedroom, there are four guestrooms and a bunkroom equipped with four twin beds. Each guestroom boasts a unique design, avoiding the uniformity of a hotel, while the overall layout allows for flexible separation of family and guests. Public areas prioritize both entertainment and practicality, including a game room, a bar, an open-concept living and dining area, and a fully appointed outdoor kitchen. A large mudroom provides private, lockable closets for guests to store gear, and a separate drop zone is designated for hunters to shed muddy attire. The exterior features a lakefront area with deep porches, a putting green, and a firepit surrounded by Adirondack chairs. Allyson Hicks faced the challenge of incorporating design elements that reflect Louisiana's heritage and the lodge's purpose without resorting to a typical casual hunting camp aesthetic. The homeowner's preferences, such as a fondness for gray and a dislike for gold, guided the color palette and material selection. Gray tones were used on walls and trim, and metal finishes like polished nickel, gunmetal, and black iron were chosen. Louisiana-specific elements, such as exposed beams and old brick, were integrated into the design. A key aspect of the design involved balancing rustic and contemporary styles to ensure a current yet timeless look. Hicks achieved this by mixing worn, vintage-looking pieces with more streamlined furniture. Antique woods were a prominent feature, with weathered shiplap used for the outdoor kitchen ceiling, antique beadboard for accent walls, and antique doors complementing new stained alder wood doors. The bunkroom, designed for younger guests, incorporates remnants from the lodge’s wood beams and flooring for stair treads and upper-bunk railings, alongside shiplap walls and built-in storage. The refined-meets-rustic aesthetic extended to the use of galvanized metal, mirroring the lodge's roof indoors. Artisan Josh Guillory created a custom galvanized metal range hood for the kitchen, and light fixtures with a similar matte metal appearance were selected for the bar area. The kitchen also features oversized nickel handles on drawers and cabinets to introduce a masculine touch, alongside Mont Blanc quartzite countertops and a textured Milas white marble tile backsplash with chiseled edges. Lighting was thoughtfully curated to combine streamlined fixtures with cruder pieces that fit the rural environment, ensuring the lodge serves as a comfortable and inviting haven throughout the year. #HuntingLodge #RuralRetreat #InteriorDesign #LouisianaDesign #RusticChic #FamilyGetaway #ArchitecturalDesign #CustomHomes #TimelessDesign

Walt Disney World is undertaking a two-year refurbishment project at Old Key West, aiming to modernize all guest rooms in the large Disney Vacation Club (DVC) resort. This extensive hard goods refurbishment involves updating kitchen appliances, replacing or reupholstering all furniture, altering wall and window coverings, replacing flooring, and completely overhauling bathrooms. Due to the scope of work and the number of guest rooms, this project is longer than typical hotel refurbishments at Walt Disney World. The previous major refurbishment of Old Key West occurred in 2010 and 2011, which updated flooring, kitchen counters, upholstery, televisions, and some furniture, and added a fold-out sleeper chair. However, bathrooms were largely untouched, and much of the furniture was simply refinished. While the earlier refurbishment transitioned the decor from an older style to a more modern, laid-back beach vibe, its aesthetic did not age well. The current refurbishment represents a significantly larger undertaking. Early impressions of the refurbished studios were mixed, with some guests finding the new design sterile and lacking the tropical personality of the previous rooms, favoring white and neutral colors over more vibrant themes. This contrasts with the generally well-received refurbishment of Vero Beach, which could have served as a successful template for Old Key West with minor stylistic and color palette adjustments. A notable point of contention among some guests is the absence of bed runners in the new rooms, which could add a much-needed thematic element or splash of color, as seen in other DVC properties like Vero Beach, Copper Creek, and Polynesian Villas. Conversely, the 2-bedroom and 1-bedroom units demonstrate a more successful refurbishment, featuring significantly more personality and color. The living rooms, in particular, are highlighted as a major improvement, boasting a new rug that effectively ties the room together and invokes a tropical feel, despite some furniture being more neutral. The upholstery also contributes positively to the overall aesthetic, making the living spaces feel fresher and more modern, a substantial upgrade from the outdated 1990s sensibility of the old rooms. The indoor-outdoor living spaces of Old Key West further enhance the theme, benefiting from the lush vegetation surrounding the rooms. However, the master bedrooms in these larger units are described as thematically bland and generic, despite receiving new furniture and an aesthetic refresh. Similarly, the bathrooms, while nice, lack distinctive character, with the exception of specific artwork like the Minnie & Mickey beach art. The refurbishment is progressing across the resort, with buildings 20-56 fully renovated. Buildings 16-19 are currently in progress, while buildings 11-14 (Hospitality House booking category), 15, and 62-64 are yet to be completed or started. The project has experienced delays, pushing the completion timeline beyond original expectations. Approximately 75% of the resort is finished, increasing the likelihood of guests receiving a new room unless they are in the Hospitality House booking category. Overall, the refurbishment at Old Key West is viewed as a mixed bag. While the new living room designs in the 1-bedroom and larger units are a notable success, offering appropriate theming and a modern feel, the studio and bedroom spaces are criticized for their generic and uninspired appearance. This disparity in design approach across different room types has led to varied guest reactions, particularly among DVC owners who often value strong thematic design. The project's saving grace is the successful transformation of the living areas in the larger units, contributing to an overall positive, albeit inconsistent, refresh of the resort's accommodations. #WaltDisneyWorld #OldKeyWest #DVCRefurbishment #ResortRenovation #HotelDesign #RoomModernization #DisneyVacationClub #InteriorDesign #ThemedResort

This review provides an in-depth analysis of Disney's Wilderness Lodge, a Deluxe Resort at Walt Disney World themed to the Pacific Northwest and U.S. National Parks. The article covers various aspects of the resort, including its different accommodation options, thematic elements, room features, dining, transportation, and guest perks. The Wilderness Lodge is highlighted as a multifaceted resort, comprising the main building with standard hotel rooms and Copper Creek Villas, a separate Boulder Ridge Villas building for Disney Vacation Club members, and the Cascade Cabins along the waterfront. The author, a self-proclaimed fan of the resort, acknowledges its subjective appeal, noting it's not a universal fit for all guests, but is the Brickers' preferred choice among Walt Disney World hotels. The review addresses current and upcoming construction projects, including exterior refurbishments and room renovations expected to conclude by September 2025, with potential exterior work extending until 2027. It also mentions the ongoing construction of Disney Lakeshore Lodge nearby, emphasizing that despite these activities, the impact on guest experience is minimal, and the author plans to return. The resort is particularly recommended for holiday stays, with the Old Faithful Club Level suggested as a luxurious splurge, offering a unique experience in its grand lobby. However, standard rooms are also praised for their value among Magic Kingdom area resorts. Wilderness Lodge's thematic strength is a major focus, drawing inspiration from Yellowstone's Old Faithful Inn and Yosemite's Ahwahnee Hotel. The article details unique design elements such as the 82-foot Grand Canyon Fireplace, towering 55-foot totem poles (Raven Pole and Eagle Pole) that tell stories, and Native American carpet patterns. These details, combined with nods to historical figures like Lewis & Clark and Teddy Roosevelt, create an immersive environment that transports guests away from the theme park hustle. The author emphasizes that these details are not merely decorative but hold significant meaning, contributing to the resort's authentic feel. Guest rooms, recently refurbished, maintain the rustic and Native American-inspired aesthetic with practical upgrades. While the author personally preferred the previous style, the new rooms offer improved functionality, including better storage, power outlets, USB ports, and significantly enhanced lighting. A notable design feature is the illuminated window between the bathroom and bedroom, reminiscent of Yellowstone's Grand Prismatic Spring. Transportation options include boat service to Magic Kingdom, which is highly recommended, and efficient bus services to other parks, making access generally convenient except for Animal Kingdom. The dining scene at Wilderness Lodge is described as robust, featuring options like Artist Point, Whispering Canyon Cafe, Geyser Point Bar & Grill, Territory Lounge, and Roaring Fork. Geyser Point Bar & Grill is singled out for having one of the best burgers at Walt Disney World, and Story Book Dining at Artist Point, a Snow White character dinner, is noted as a popular option. Beyond the interiors, the outdoor areas, including trails, trees, and a man-made geyser, are highlighted as essential to the resort's charm, offering a sense of tranquility. The pools, while not the best at Walt Disney World, are appreciated for being less overcrowded. Guests also benefit from Deluxe Resort perks like Early Theme Park Entry and Extended Evening Theme Park Hours, offering significant advantages for park access. Despite a rack rate starting at over $550 per night, Wilderness Lodge is positioned as a comparatively more affordable Deluxe Resort, often available for around $400 with discounts. Its value is attributed to its strong theme, quality, and location relative to other Deluxe options, particularly when compared to Animal Kingdom Lodge. The article concludes by reiterating the author's strong recommendation for Wilderness Lodge, citing its transportive theme, updated rooms, convenient transportation, excellent dining, and overall well-rounded experience, especially during the Christmas season. #DisneyWildernessLodge #WaltDisneyWorld #DisneyResortReview #LuxuryHotels #ThemeParkAccommodation #PacificNorthwestTheme #DisneyDining #ResortAmenities #TravelGuide