(Photo above: Erick Trachsel Director of Marketing explains how the new lobby of the Riverhouse will funnel visitors to the balcony overlooking the Deschutes | Photo by Krystal Marie Collins)
Since its inception in 1974, The Riverhouse has been a premier conference space in our region. Meetings and events driven by commerce abroad have been drawn to this, the largest conference space in Bend. The Riverhouse amenities, staff and catering have all delivered service successfully to the most discerning customers.
Now, The Riverhouse is forging a revival marketing to locals and a broad range of guests. To accomplish this, new owners Vesta Hospitality have committed $10 million to a remodel in which they are embracing symbolism of The Deschutes River.
Down to the detail, General Manager Todd Cooley, points out each feature in the Junior Suite unit which embodies a river ambiance. Starting with the name plate on the room, he smiles and says, “See the shape of the river,” noting the dark blue squiggly outline backing the room number.
Once in the unit, the carpet pattern — irregular lines overlapping varying sized circles, all in different shades of grey — gives a feel of water flowing over rounded river rock. Every tone, every texture support the calming energy of The Deschutes River flow.
In one of the Riverfront rooms, The Deschutes can be easily seen below the balcony and through sparsely packed pine trees. The roar of water rushing by enlists a feeling of connectivity to nature.
In the new main entrance, which will be relocated to a lower building sitting atop the basalt banks of the Deschutes, there will be many dinning offerings. Erick Trachsel, director of sales and marketing explains, from a small store for snacks to the finest locally-sourced dinner entrees in the city, pub fare, drinks, great music, pool and hanging out by the river, are all channels the new entrance and lobby will plug guests into.
Looking to the west of the building, visitors will be able to enjoy the river which can be glimpsed through the windows that run the length of the wall. The deck, which lines the entrance building, will be equipped with seating areas and heaters for visitors wanting to experience the river up close.
Trachsel said, “This is a unique setting and we wanted to create more opportunities for people to enjoy drinks and appetizers, and just relax on the deck as part of a soothing environment. The renovation project is aimed at positioning the facility to accommodate a mix of guests; from outdoor enthusiasts using the hotel as a base camp to working professionals seeking a premier work space.”
Other renovations include technical upgrades in the conference space, tesla charging stations and an overhaul of the indoor pool. Other amenities for pets include a care package upon check-in and river front access for walks.
A grand opening of Riverhouse on the Deschutes is slated for April.
For more information contact riverhouse@vestahospitality.com, 866-558-9893. 3075 N Business 97, Bend, OR 97703
