??Cavalier Resort: That's a wrap!

We would like to express our gratitude to Gold Key/PHR for entrusting WPL with the prestigious project of preserving and enhancing this iconic landmark along with EDSA, Inc. , Cooper Carry , Atlantic Coast Development, A&W Contractors, MM Gunter & Son, Erik Homes, W. M. Jordan Company , Oceanfront Investments, and Oceanfront South.

Let us take you on a journey through time as we explore the rich heritage of the Cavalier Hotel and the exciting developments surrounding it!

The journey began in 1926 when entrepreneurs Hunter John and Frank E. Beardsley envisioned a grand hotel that would rival the most luxurious resorts of the time. The Cavalier Hotel was meticulously designed in the Spanish Renaissance Revival style, boasting lavish amenities and exquisite architectural details. It opened its doors on April 15, 1927, as the premier destination for the elite and the favored retreat of celebrities and dignitaries.

Over the years, the Cavalier Hotel witnessed countless glamorous events and hosted renowned guests including presidents, Hollywood stars, and famous musicians. It became a symbol of elegance and sophistication, earning its place as an iconic landmark along the Virginia Beach Oceanfront.

WPL played a pivotal role in the design team and master planning efforts for this extraordinary seaside property. As we embarked on the preservation and development of the hotel and its site, we faced unique challenges influenced by the popularity and nostalgia associated with the site and its architectural gem. We actively sought community input, addressed historic registration implications, and collaborated with various organizations to honor the concerns and aspirations of all stakeholders. Our primary goal was to emphasize, respect, and showcase the profound historical significance of the hotel. The conceptual plan was a carefully outlined vision of how the site could be developed while preserving its open spaces and distinctive entrance features. We incorporated existing on-site elements such as topographical changes and established vegetation, seamlessly blending the new with the old.

The result is a breathtaking transformation that not only preserves the historic character of the Cavalier Hotel, but also introduces an exclusive community surrounding it. Nestled among the native live oaks and enhanced landscape features, you will find a selection of estate homes, cottages, brownstones, bungalows, and carriage homes. A thoughtfully designed network of paved streets, alleyways, and pedestrian walkways winds around the grand hotel, connecting the neighborhood with Cavalier Shores and the beach oceanfront.

Another integral part of the Cavalier Hotel's legacy is the Cavalier Beach Club, which first opened its doors on Memorial Weekend in 1929. Throughout the years, it served as a hub for a variety of entertainment events, hosting big swing bands in the 1930s, and grand ball celebrations.

In 2018, as part of the Cavalier Renaissance, the Cavalier Beach Club was reborn on axis with the historic Cavalier Hotel. The new Beach Club embodies modern South Florida architecture, offering intimate interior spaces alongside an expansive oceanfront swimming pool, pool house, outdoor bar, and direct beach access. Today, it serves as a private beach club exclusively for Cavalier Hotel guests and Cavalier Residents, enriching the vibrant Cavalier Resort.

Continuing the legacy of excellence, the Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort stands proudly adjacent to the historic Cavalier Hotel. It replaced the existing Cavalier Oceanfront Hotel, which was built in the early 1970s.

Despite the interruption of the Covid-19 pandemic, the 22-story luxury hotel opened in 2020 and has become a prominent landmark just off the north end of the renowned boardwalk. With 305 rooms and exceptional amenities, including a rooftop bar with panoramic views, indoor/outdoor swimming pools, a large 24-hour fitness center, and beautifully landscaped grounds featuring bocce ball courts, fire pits, and terraces, the Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront is the northern terminus of the Cavalier Resort. It seamlessly transitions in scale with four-story luxury condominiums toward the historic North End and Cavalier Shores neighborhoods.

As the final puzzle piece to the Cavalier Resort, we are thrilled to share the announcement of the grand opening of the highly anticipated Embassy Suites. This remarkable achievement was led by Mike Fox, a former WPL landscape architect, who played a pivotal role in bringing this vision to life.

The Embassy Suites stands as a testament to the seamless integration of timeless elegance and modern comfort. Boasting 185 well-appointed suites, each offering separate living and sleeping areas, the hotel provides a luxurious retreat for both leisure and business travelers. With its prime location adjacent to the historic Cavalier Hotel and the vibrant Cavalier Beach Club, guests can immerse themselves in the rich history and natural beauty of the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. The Embassy Suites also features exceptional amenities, including a state-of-the-art conference center, a beach front Taco -N- Tequila bar, and casual dining options. This final addition completes the Cavalier Resort.

The transformation of the Cavalier Hotel and its surrounding campus is a testament to the commitment of preserving history while embracing progress and offering an unforgettable experience that honors the past while embracing the future. We are proud to have been part of this journey, and we extend our sincere appreciation to Gold Key/PHR for their trust in our expertise.

Thank you for joining us on this voyage through the history of the historic Cavalier Hotel in Virginia Beach.

Stay tuned for more updates on other extraordinary projects!

Warm regards and best of wishes to Gold Key/PHR on this remarkable achievement,