Community leaders and hotel executives officially unveil the Phase I of the Hyatt Regency Sarasota's $22 million renovation with a ceremonial ribbon cutting. (left to right): Sharon Cunningham, Chairperson, Board of Directors, Sarasota Convention and Visitors Bureau; Ken Shelin, Vice-Mayor of Sarasota; Nancy Longstreth, Director of Sales and Marketing, Hyatt Regency Sarasota; and Mark Becker, General Manager Hyatt Regency Sarasota.

 The Hyatt Regency Sarasota has unveiled the completed Phase I—which has infused a casually sophisticated  "Florida chic" design scheme that has infused a bright and airy atmosphere into its 294 guestrooms, common areas, meeting spaces and the new Currents restaurant and bar—of its $22 million renovation during a ribbon cutting ceremony held in June in the hotel's sleek new lobby. 

Phase I of the Hyatt Regency Sarasota renovations included infusing more sophistication and Florida style in its 20,000 square feet of meeting/event space.

 "The goal with this renovation was to reposition the hotel competitively and elevate its status both within the local community and among visitors to our area," said Mark Becker, General Manager.  "Guests and residents are seeking upscale accommodations and event spaces along with friendly, impeccable service, and that is the environment we've created at Hyatt Regency Sarasota."

The new lobby of the Hyatt Regency Sarasota epitomizes “Florida Chic” design.

Other new features include: new carpet, tile, lighting, balcony doors, redesigned bathrooms. 32-inch flat-screen televisions, iHome clock radios with  iPod docking stations, wireless internet access and expanded work  stations with oversized desks in all guest rooms; As part of the hotel's 20,000 square feet of meeting/event space, a brand new 2,000-square-foot room has been added providing floor-to-ceiling views of the lagoon-style pool and private marina; Currents now offers regionally inspired signature dishes as well  a bountiful breakfast buffet and a la carte choices.

Currents restaurant and bar, locatedin a bi-level space just below the lobby, Currents showcases the fresh Floribbean creations of Nicaraguan-born Executive Chef Aaron Chavarria. Florida Lobster Macadamia, Tropical Cajun Scallops and Caribbean Shrimp are just a few of the regionally inspired signature dishes.

Phase II of the hotel's renovations is scheduled to be completed in late 2008 and includes transformation of the former Boathouse restaurant to premier over-the-water event space and a complete renovation of the Sarasota Ballroom.

All guestrooms have completely redesigned bathrooms as well as new carpet, tile, lighting and balcony doors.Added amenities include the signature Hyatt Grand Bed, 32-inch flat-screen televisions, iHome, clock radios with iPod docking stations, wireless internet access and expanded work stations with oversized desks.