A new interior designer brings a fresh and enchanting holiday atmosphere to the historic Hotel Bethlehem.
Hotel Bethlehem, known for its historic charm and elegance, has undergone a stunning transformation this holiday season. For the first time in over a decade, the hotel collaborated with a new interior designer to create a captivating Christmas wonderland. Anthony Sierra of GailGray Home Furnishings and Interior Design took on the task of adorning the hotel with festive decorations that would highlight its architectural grandeur and historical significance. With over 35,000 lights, 25 trees, 36 wreaths, and six golden nutcrackers, Hotel Bethlehem has become a magical destination for guests and locals alike.
Enchanted, Snow-Inspired Sparkle
Sierra’s goal was to strike a balance between filling the space with decorations and allowing the hotel’s iconic features to shine. In the main lobby, a classic Christmas scene with red, black, and gold accents creates a nostalgic atmosphere. Frosted glitter and real crystals were used to add an enchanted, snow-inspired sparkle throughout the hotel. Sierra’s favorite part of the design can be found in the Mural Ballroom, where frosted white wreaths and snow-dusted trees create a serene and elegant ambiance. Each area of the hotel has its own unique look, showcasing Sierra’s attention to detail and creativity.
Follow the Stars
A significant aspect of the decorations at Hotel Bethlehem is the presence of Moravian Stars. These stars can be found at the front desk and scattered throughout the hotel, paying homage to the hotel’s location in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, which has a rich Moravian heritage. Sierra also made sure to incorporate beloved elements from previous years, such as the nativity scene, gliding geese, and the famous gingerbread replica of the hotel. This was done to honor the legacy of the previous designers, Gary Berger and Robert Averill, who decorated the hotel for over a decade. Their contributions and influence are deeply respected and cherished.
A Team Effort and a Pinch-Me Moment
Decorating Hotel Bethlehem was not just a one-person job. Sierra and his design partner, Ty Cundey, worked tirelessly to bring their vision to life. They conducted extensive research online, scouring Instagram, Google, YouTube, and news articles to gather inspiration and ensure their design would complement the hotel’s history. Sierra acknowledges that this project is much bigger than himself and feels honored to continue the legacy of Berger and Averill. Growing up in Bethlehem, Sierra considers decorating the hotel a dream come true, likening his experience to a Hallmark Christmas movie. He hopes to continue creating magical holiday experiences and dreams of one day decorating the White House.
Conclusion:
Hotel Bethlehem has been transformed into a captivating Christmas wonderland, thanks to the creative vision of Anthony Sierra and his design partner, Ty Cundey. The decorations highlight the hotel’s architectural grandeur while incorporating elements that pay homage to its rich history. Sierra’s attention to detail and dedication to preserving the legacy of previous designers have made this year’s decorations truly special. As guests and locals marvel at the enchanting atmosphere, Hotel Bethlehem continues to be a cherished holiday tradition for all who visit.
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