Singer-producer Pharrell Williams is teaming up with developer David Grutman for a project he hopes will make travelers happy.
The two announced this month that they will develop a new resort called Something Else on Atlantis Paradise Island in the Bahamas.
The two have set a January 2024 target date for opening Something Else, which will feature about 400 rooms and suites, a plethora of restaurants and bars, and a number of bungalows, some even equipped with recording studios.
The two told CNN that the phrase “tropical modernism” is the look and feel they are going for with Something Else.
“Often, when talking about tropical aesthetics, there’s this harkening back to another time,” Williams said. “It’s like, ‘Man, let’s let that time be.’ We’re going for the future here.”
Somewhere Else will take over the current location of The Beach, the more economical Atalantis option on Paradise Island. Williams and Grutman have selected Shawn Sullivan of the Rockwell Group to lead the redesign.
“What we’ve done as an approach is to strip away a lot of bulk from the architecture,” Sullivan said. “We’re opening up the structure to the landscape and to the sea. Warm-weather resorts also often have ample natural elements, but they’re usually very controlled. We’re excited to let nature pervade the space.”
The property will feature a beach and several pools. Guests will also have access to the other Paradise Island amenities and entertainment.
Grutman and Williams will retain 100 percent ownership and have been given carte blanche to develop the hotel as they wish, according to CNN.
“Somewhere Else is going to be a one-of-a-kind resort,” said Grutman. “Not only will it offer a major extension of the unforgettable and high-energy experiences we deliver with Groot Hospitality, but also, a clear focus on nature and restorative elements. We’ll have something for everyone, yet Pharrell and I are making sure Somewhere Else is unlike anywhere else.”
This isn’t the first time Williams and Grutman have teamed up for a project. They have two projects in Miami: Swan, a trendy restaurant and bar, and the boutique Goodtime Hotel.
Paradise Island officials are looking forward to whatever the duo comes up with.
“Teaming up with David Grutman and Pharrell to further evolve the resort is an endeavor we are incredibly proud to be embarking upon this year,” said Audrey Oswell, president and managing director of Atlantis Paradise Island. “We can’t wait to share the Somewhere Else experience with new and returning guests, which will be amplified by the culture and warm Bahamian hospitality that can only be found at Atlantis Paradise Island.”
Costs for the renovation, and potential costs to stay at the resort, once it has opened, have not been revealed. It is expected to be an all-inclusive resort like the majority of properties in the region.
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