Pretty in Pink
A hand-painted mural by de Gournay channels the property’s inherent charm.
a redesign by Kemble Interiors ushers the guesthouse into its next iteration.
Photographs by Carmel Brantley
Few hotels in the world have achieved the renown that THE COLONY HOTEL in Florida has maintained for almost 80 years. Since its debut in 1947, this lavish pink-stucco icon has stood the test of time as a haven for the state’s most glamorous guests, including President John F. Kennedy and his wife, Jackie, and their children; Judy Garland; John Lennon; and Sophia Loren. What makes the place so irresistible, and earned it the nickname “Pink Paradise,” is an understanding of the timeless appeal of Old Palm Beach.
The hotel has recently updated its 93 rooms with a redesign by Kemble Interiors—including custom de Gournay wallpaper—but the vintage tropical prints and retro sensibility are still evident in the contemporary pastels and whimsical illustrations. Velvet, bamboo, wicker, and scalloped edges are just a sampling of the textures and textiles that give the hotel its vibe. Vintage furniture and wallpaper galore fill out an eclectic, playful atmosphere that nonetheless maintains an air of decorum.
Art Deco chandeliers and gold sconces give the impressive lobby a luxurious feel, and although the original guest rooms might seem a bit small by modern standards, 14 residence-style villas, bungalows, and penthouses offer multibedroom options, available for a minimum of one month. No matter the size of your room, Matouk linens and robes, Ladurée turndown treats, and full-size toiletries featuring the custom Pink Paradise 155 scent help make for a pampered guest experience. At the pool a magazine cabana is stocked with options for a little light reading, and just down the block at the beach, butlers are on hand to make sure Colony guests get the luxe catering and setup (towels, chairs, and umbrellas) that round out a stay at this oceanfront grande dame. thecolonypalmbeach.com