Grand Floridian Lobby Reimagining Update: Staircase Unveiled, New Wallpaper, Birdcage Bar Theming, and More
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort has been a construction zone for months as Disney works to reimagine the space, but we’re starting to turn a corner and see some projects wrap up. During a recent visit to Magic Kingdom, we stopped by the Grand Floridian to get an updated look at the latest work, including some areas that are now complete. Here’s a look around!
The Grand (Staircase) Reveal
Early last month,
we brought you a first look at a new mural that would preside over the grand staircase. Now, work has wrapped up on not only the new mural, but also a recarpeting of the staircase to give it a fresh new look.
Wallpaper Upgrades
One aspect of the project that has gone a little bit under the radar is the wallpaper upgrades taking place throughout the lobby area. First, here’s a look back at the old wallpaper design. Vertical lines were prevalent throughout the lobby, but they have been replaced.
We’ll start with a look at the elevator foyer areas. The photos below are of the second-floor elevator bank area. As you can see, the vertical line wallpaper has been replaced with designs that feature tree branches and birds. This wallpaper is similar to the wallpaper that
you’ll find in the other Grand Floridian campus-style buildings.
Other wallpaper updates include the transition areas between the first-floor main entrance and the monorail egress. Here’s a look at that wallpaper design.
Bell Services & Check-In Areas
The Bell Services area has relocated to the “left” side of the lobby as it relates to the main entrance from the porte cochere. This area was previously underutilized, at least in recent years.
Construction continues on the main check-in area. As we can see, there is still work to be done on the desks, while new lighting fixtures and wallpaper have been installed. Construction walls have been removed from this area, and only curtains are in place right now. To me, that suggests that this area will open soon.
Birdcage Bar Update
Last, but not least, we have an updated look at the lobby birdcage bar, which is making some wonderful progress. More than just a skeleton frame, the birdcage bar now has theming elements, including some wood grain panels that give it a warm, elevated look. Here are a number of photos of the bar from different angles around the lobby.
As a reminder, here’s the previously released concept art for the Grand Floridian lobby reimagining project. The work is expected to be completed early next year.
