The Fairmont Southampton Hotel has begun an $11.5 million renovations to improve guest rooms and suites at the landmark hotel.

The first phase of the project is expected to be completed in May with 235 rooms receiving new furniture, fixtures and equipment.

“The renovation in the guest rooms and suites will help to maintain The Fairmont Southampton’s prominent position in Bermuda,” said George Terpilowski, managing director of resort, in a statement yesterday.

“The new decor will be more in keeping with the preferences of today’s travellers while maintaining the island character of the resort.” The guest rooms new design scheme will “include a rich palette of island sophistication, incorporating inspiration from Bermuda’s lush landscape,” added the statement.

The renovation work is being carried out floor-by-floor and is scheduled to take place during the winter slow season. Work on the first phase began in mid November, and work on the second phase — another 172 rooms — is scheduled to begin in December 2014.

In total, 407 rooms are scheduled to undergo renovations as part of the project.

A spokeswoman said the project is being managed by Parker Torres, a Massachusetts-based interior designer who previously managed the renovation and restoration of Fairmont Copley Plaza in Boston.

“The new guest rooms will feature a warm chocolate brown and crisp white colour scheme with pops of orange and turquoise to complement the soothing colour palette,” a resort spokeswoman said. “The guest rooms and suites will be light and bright creating a leisure resort feeling that is both contemporary and true to the spirit of Bermuda.

“In addition to the leisure resort feeling, guest rooms are thoughtfully appointed to meet the needs of business travellers as well, featuring expansive working desks with ergonomic chairs, WIFI, and technology connections for the flat screen televisions. The hotel’s WIFI offerings have been increased to cover most of the property, including the beach. All guestrooms feature expansive bathrooms as well walk-in closets with built in dressers.”

ECM Services has been hired as the general contractor for the project, while additional local contractors include Oceans Interiors, Treecon, Reeves Electric, Appro, Aptech, Final Cutt and Lisa’s Eco Painting.

The guest room renovation follows recent enhancements to the resort’s restaurants, including the launch of The Newport, a Gastropub, The Dock at the Waterlot and the repositioning of Ocean Club.