Respected architect partner, John Gardner of Cooper and Gardner Architects, along with Alex Russell, project architect and other members of the firm, are responsible for the Reefs' latest renovations.

General manager of the Reefs, Neal Stephens, spoke very highly of their creative expertise in updating the landmark resort established in the late 1940s.

Mr. Stephens said: "We have a long term, very positive working relationship with Cooper and Gardner Architects who have helped us, much to our satisfaction, realise our latest goals.'' In fact, John Gardner advised that the firm has shared a successful business relationship with the Reefs for over 15 years.

"Interestingly, Hinson Cooper who founded Cooper and Gardner was a contractor who built portions of the Reefs over 50 years ago.'' The architects describe their recent renovation project as a wonderful opportunity to enhance the facilities to reflect the spaces and unique demands of today's discerning traveller.

The horizon pool is a notably exciting addition! The project architect, Mr. Russell, said: "One of the best results of the project is the pool area which provides a very modern, clean lined area with stunning views of the ocean; the use of natural stone decking material is particularly successful.'' The greatest challenge seemed to be structural issues with the pool and balconies according to Mr. Gardner who advised that The Department of Planning had been very helpful in the entire process in assisting approvals.

Also the bathroom areas posed the greatest challenge from the interior's view.

"The Reefs wished a size and level of finish compatible with the needs of the modern traveller. This had to be accommodated within a very restricted building shell,'' advised Russell.

The result is successful, both in terms of space, quality of finishes and features.'' From the exterior perspective, the challenge was the creation of a more random, picturesque feel to the buildings, while relating to the existing site and buildings.

"As with most construction projects it was also a challenge to complete the work on a tight schedule but the construction team, including the Reefs, worked well together to resolve problems as soon as they arose,'' Mr. Russell said.

The architects agreed, as with most projects, that the greatest satisfaction was achieving the transition from concept on paper to reality in three dimensions.

"It is a delight to have the Reefs as a client and to contribute through them to Bermuda's tourism product,'' concluded Mr. Gardner.

Architects for The Reefs. Left to right: Devin Lightbourne, Duncan Robson, Alex Russell, John Gardner and James Martinez.