Philpotts Interiors

The Royal Hawaiian

Waikiki, Oʻahu, HI

A Sense of Place is what connects people to their surroundings. Our approach used this concept to project the Royal Hawaiian’s colorful heritage and signature style. We aimed to create a bridge between new and old Waikiki; an environment which provided guests with memorable experiences and connections to Hawaii. The warmth of the Royal’s iconic exterior is brought inside using rich standards and classic forms.

The thrill of arrival felt by visitors during the Waikiki of yesteryear is recreated with welcoming public spaces. Bold greens, pinks and browns mix with floral carpet patterns, textured wall-coverings, and vintage photography to engage the guests.

Guests soon settle into fresh and elegant rooms and reflect on the saying that “the journey is as important as the destination.” Recognizable hallmarks of the area, as well as the existing elements of this “grand dame” of a hotel, make the experience exclusive to the Royal Hawaiian. A warm color palette is complemented by a bold fuchsia pink and platinum silver wallcovering on a headboard accented wall. On this feature wall is an enlarged pineapple motif symbolizing Hawaiian hospitality. Custom dark wood furniture complements the lively room palette. Well-appointed drapery and the original valences are reworked to call attention to the dramatic ceiling. An elegant nickel-finished chandelier illuminates the room with residential-like warmth. The room art of native flora and authentic architectural drawings of the hotel are the finishing touch.

Lobby Seating Area

Crisp white bedding and a chartreuse and a “mink” velvet boudoir pillow, combined with a classically-shaped, oversized chocolate raffia headboard make a sensual statement. Thoughtful, practical details include multi-purpose consoles which accommodate hospitality bars, dressers, desk and dining components.

Sable-colored stone on bathroom floors and shower walls create a distinctive bathroom that looks both current and rich. Dark stained millwork is echoed in a furniture-style vanity that keeps the space classic. High end amenities and the hotel’s signature pink bathrobes spell luxury and bring back the PINK!

Events Corridor