ORLANDO, Fla. – The Castle Hotel has been a fixture on International Drive for nearly 20 years.
Friday marks the 1 year anniversary The Castle Hotel re-opened its doors after receiving a major multimillion dollar makeover.
Mark Kessler of The Kessler Collection says there was a distinct vision behind the renovation.
"We traveled miles around the world to make sure we have the right artifacts for the hotel," Kessler said.
The Castle Hotel is located in the heart of I-Drive. With a $200 million shopping, dining and entertainment district under construction, this hidden gem may see a lot more guest. After all the 425 foot Orlando Eye Observation Wheel sits right outside their front door.
Mark Kessler's' family owns luxury hotels and properties including the Grand Bohemian in downtown Orlando. Kessler says transforming this hotel to give it a modern chic hip feel was really a family effort.
"My dad sister and I all really enjoy that creative part and we work with our design team to come up with a concept," Kessler said.
The $6.5 million renovation reflects 20 years of growth as a company and no expense was spared.
"We went over our budget for sure, just like when you remodel your house at home you always find some things you want to do," Kessler said.
You'll find art and music infused throughout The Castle Hotel. From a relaxing spa, a garden bistro, a pool oasis and guest rooms complete with plush bedding and all sorts of artifacts including antlers in antlers lounge, their actually shed from red stag and shipped right from South America.
Kessler says every other day a box would show up at the office.
"Oh we have this piece from this travel and this piece of artwork, you never know what dad there is things arriving in the office daily so you never know where he wants them," he said.
That's what makes the castle so unique, while still located in one of the busiest tourist areas you can find a retreat with style and elegance.
Kessler credits his families passion for being a part of every single improvement.
"All those details come from our personal touches and design team that what makes our brand different and distinct," Kessler said.