Transforming Luxury: The $80M Renovation of JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa

The Hardy Group, in partnership with Trinity Investments, managed the comprehensive renovation of the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa, a premier luxury resort set on 316 acres in the sweeping Sonoran Desert. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the resort underwent an $80 million transformation last fall, showcasing a fresh, modern design inspired by the surrounding destination. This expansive renovation introduced a refreshed lobby, beautifully redesigned guestrooms, and the resort’s new signature restaurant, Tía Carmen, created by Chef Angelo Sosa and designed by Schoos Design.

The renovation of 869 guestrooms, 81 suites, and corridors, which began in May 2021, included all-new FF&E, upgraded lighting, new carpet, and refreshed wall finishes. Bathrooms were modernized with updated vanities, back-lit mirrors, plumbing fixtures, and lighting, while the existing tile floors were deep cleaned. Corridors received new tile flooring, millwork, and updated wayfinding signage, along with the renovation of twelve elevator cabs. Looney Associates led the interior design, with Douglas Fredrickson Architects, Benjamin West as the purchasing agent, and PWI Construction as the general contractor.

The reimagined pool complex, unveiled in 2024, was completed in three phases and features a new slide tower complex, upgrades to the Lazy River, two VIP areas with cabanas and spas, and a naturalized pond, alongside updated FF&E. Phase 1 addressed pool decks, stairs, and coping at the Lazy River and Griffin Bay pools, completed in August 2020, while Phase 2 finished the remaining pool decks and spa areas by July 2021. These enhancements culminated in a reimagined and expanded pool experience, now a standout feature of the resort.

Additional updates included a refresh of the upper lobby with updated FF&E and lighting, improving the guest arrival experience. This year also saw the introduction of second restaurant concept, Kembara, and the opening of a new and improved Starbucks location. Looking ahead into 2025 plans for ballrooms renovations are underway.

The JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa continues to evolve as a premier destination, combining luxury and innovation to elevate the guest experience while celebrating the beauty of its Sonoran Desert surroundings.