Bernards Restores, Rebuilds Iconic Hotel

SANTA BARBARA, CA-GlobeSt.com has exclusively learned that Los Angeles-based Bernards is implementing the $46-million El Encanto restoration and rebuild project. The five-star, Santa Barbara resort hotel is owned and operated by Orient–Express Hotels Ltd.

The hotel is currently closed for refurbishment and will reopen in March 2013. “We are replacing the main hotel, which was built in 1913, with a meticulously constructed, recreation of the period architecture,” explains Michael Cawlina, president of Bernards management services division. The new hotel structure, which was designed by Gensler, will provide modern-day facilities and services such as a boutique spa, fitness center and outdoor zero-edge pool, as well as underground parking.