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History Uncovered - The Hotel del Coronado Restoration Tour
Behind-the-Scenes with Preservation Experts
September/October 2024

historic fresco

This incredible original fresco was found during restoration. Now restored and conserved, tour-goers will get to see firsthand the results. Photo by Bruce Coons

Join SOHO and AIASD for a special behind-the-scenes exploration of the ongoing restoration of the iconic Hotel del Coronado, including major recently completed areas. Informed by thorough research, this exclusive tour provides an intimate look at the meticulous efforts by leading preservation architects and their team to preserve and restore one of San Diego County's most cherished landmarks.

The tour will cover the original design and construction in 1888, and modifications over the years. Then, new highlights include the recently completed restorations of the front facade, spacious lobby, meeting rooms, and adjacent adaptively reused industrial buildings, including the Power Plant and historic laundry.

Leading this tour will be preservation architect David Marshall, AIA, of Heritage Architecture & Planning, and leaders of Swinerton Builders, the project's general contractor, who will provide their expert insights into the complex restoration process.

The restoration and construction team will guide you through the elegantly restored lobby, the Crown Room, and the broad entry porch, complete with wooden rocking chairs for guests. They will show how historic photos and long-hidden details rediscovered during construction allowed the team to replicate and replace missing historic features, such as interior stained-glass windows. A new front drive and stone fountain are among other amenities being returned to the hotel. A newly discovered 1888 ceiling fresco, now fully conserved, is sure to steal your heart with its timeless appeal.

Event Details
When Thursday, October 10, 5-7pm
Location Hotel del Coronado, 1500 Orange Avenue, Coronado (Meet on the front porch, just west of the main entrance)
Cost SOHO and AIASD members $20 per person; non-members $40. The price includes a commemorative tour booklet.
Purchase Tickets Online

Parking 50% off parking for tour attendees. Self-parking will be a $10 flat rate, and valet parking will be a $20 flat rate

Your ticket purchase supports SOHO and AIASD. Proceeds from this event benefit both organizations. Limited availability. Secure your spot today to avoid disappointment. This tour is expected to fill up quickly. This tour is ADA accessible. AIA San Diego will be providing 2 continuing education credit for attendance.

Special thanks to the Hotel del Coronado for their generosity in granting us this exclusive opportunity to share the restoration of this architectural treasure with our members. We also thank our knowledgeable tour guides.

Background
This tour marks a significant moment in the ongoing collaboration between SOHO and the Hotel del Coronado. Since 2001, when SOHO secured a model settlement agreement with the hotel's then-owners, this partnership has been one of our most successful preservation efforts. The current ownership’s commitment to achieving a world-class restoration highlights the strength of this lasting relationship.

Before you visit, refresh your memory of the journey leading to this major restoration by exploring past SOHO articles.

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