Elkus Manfredi Architects designed the White Elephant Palm Beach as a complete transformation of an historic hotel that introduces a fresh new aesthetic while preserving the integrity of the architecture.

Built in the 1920s and designated an historic landmark in 1980, the iconic Bradley Park Hotel – now owned by New England Development – was ripe for a reimagining. New England Development asked Elkus Manfredi Architects to envision a design that embraced the unique history of Palm Beach and the architectural significance of the historic property, while introducing a modern and casual elegance that is a departure from the more formal aesthetic of Palm Beach. Think: relaxed, luxurious, and deeply personal but with a decidedly light touch. Along with this truly contemporary design voice, the design of the new hotel offers the authentic sense of place and famously meticulous standard of service for which its top-rated Nantucket sibling is known.

Enhancing the building’s Mediterranean heritage involves a strong focus on the outdoor environment and landscaping, with an amenity-rich central courtyard and balconies and terraces for all courtyard-facing guestrooms. Working in a hundred-year-old historic building also requires creative, flexible design schemes that could accommodate the surprises that come with opening up century-old walls. In addition to necessary structural and utility upgrades for the 21st century, the redesign of this landmark building and its outdoor environment needed to honor the property’s history and satisfy the historic criteria of the Landmarks Preservation Commission of Palm Beach, as well as the National Park Service.

Design: Elkus Manfredi Architects Photography: Chi-Thien Nguyen

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