The Ritz-Carlton Grand Caymen

Having been a part of the original construction of the resort in 2003, and the massive effort to recover from Hurricane Ivan’s mid-completion interruption, it was our great pleasure to return to The Ritz–Carlton Grand Cayman for renovations to two of its restaurant venues. Undertaking renovations in an exclusive venue with minimal interruptions to the clientele can be an ambitious proposition. The key is close communication with the design team, extreme attention to detail from production through installation, and comprehensive coordination. The resort focuses on providing natural serenity and the restaurant venues reflect that value. The design team at The Johnson Studio placed high priority on maintaining the design intent of the original designer, Frank Nicholson, with a new and modern approach. The Taikun Lounge reflects the traditional Japanese architectural principles of amity with the environment and of tailoring to local conditions in ways that provide comfort with minimal energy consumption. This can be seen in the use of Plain Sawn Red Oak with a dark finish in the large ceiling beams, wall panels, and back bar area. The beauty of the wood in its primary function is allowed to be, in and of itself, the ornamentation in the room. The Seven Restaurant dining area reflects the openness of the nearby ocean and white sand beaches with painted white millwork within the restaurant contrasted with the dark stained Plain Sawn White Oak suspended ceiling trellis. Large glass-door wine displays set apart the private dining area from the main dining area, allowing the displays to also function as beautiful décor.