The Southeast Coast Feature

Casa de Campo, a landmark luxury resort since the 1970s, has embarked on a major renovation that includes a major redo of its public areas and 80 of its rooms, renamed Elite Rooms & Suites. The three designers who accomplished this describe the process.

Interior designer Mayra González had a nine-year history with Casa, having designed several areas, including the Cygalle Healing Spa. Chosen to restructure the major public spaces, she, in turn, was asked to choose an architect.

"One day, completely out of the blue, Mayra González called," said architect Rafael Selman, "asking if my firm would be interested in collaborating on this project. I responded with an immediate si!" Both of them considered it a privilege and a challenge to bring up to date what is probably the most important resort in the Caribbean. They only had from June to December 2009. What followed was what Ms. González described as "an impressive synergy, a spectacular dance with rapport and harmony."

The most significant aspects were redesigning the lobby, the interior patio, the restaurant and lounge, the pool complex, and the fitness center. As Selman explained, "We created these elements to follow in a crescendo sequence." Both the pool complex—now with white, canopied gazebos, cabanas, and stylish lounge chairs—and open-sided but roofed lounge with a new sofa area, promote social interaction.

Ms. González says, "We wanted to create welcoming spaces while contemporizing with a minimalist style, designing harmonious environments integrated with nature, thus preserving the elegant, tropical essence that is Casa de Campo."

Acclaimed interior designer Patricia Reid redecorated the first 80 of the hotel rooms categorized as Elite (the renovation of the rest of the rooms will follow). Housed inside two-story buildings that are surrounded by gardens, the Elite rooms are a two-minute walk from the reception area. They have a residential feel, with plush bedding and delicate gold embroidery on the pillowcases. Taking inspiration from the resort's owners, the La Romana Central Sugar Co., there are artifacts and photos from the sugar industry, some of them vintage.

One way to sample the wares at Casa de Campo is to buy the resort's day pass ($75 for adults, $45 for children 4-12 years). It will give you a place in the sun at Minetas Beach, towels, nonmotorized aqua sports, lunch in the Beach Club, and entrance to Altos de Chavón.