Grand Bohemian Casa Monica Reimagined in St. Augustine

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla., Nov. 10, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- The Kessler Collection has introduced the Grand Bohemian Casa Monica, a newly reimagined resort and spa in St. Augustine, Florida, under its Autograph Collection. The transformation celebrates the storied 137-room hotel's Moorish Revival heritage through contemporary design, original art, and distinctive Grand Bohemian experiences. The property, now known as Grand Bohemian Casa Monica, has been revitalized after a thoughtful renovation that honors its Spanish and Moorish Revival architecture, which has defined the landmark in America's oldest city for nearly 140 years.

Originally built in 1888 by Boston architect Franklin W. Smith, Casa Monica has long been a defining landmark in St. Augustine. The property was later acquired by Henry Flagler, who renamed it the Cordova Hotel. After falling into disrepair during the Great Depression, the building served as a county courthouse for decades before Kessler Collection Chairman and CEO Richard C. Kessler restored the property in the 1990s and revived its original Casa Monica name. This marked a significant milestone for The Kessler Collection, bringing the landmark into its portfolio and cementing its place as one of Florida's most iconic hotels.

The reimagining of Casa Monica preserves the character and architectural heritage of the original while introducing a lighter, more refined interpretation of its Moorish influences. The refreshed room interiors draw inspiration from the architecture and artistry of Morocco and Southern Spain, reinterpreting historic influences through a contemporary lens. The transformation builds on the design team's recent refresh of the public spaces, which introduced handcrafted Moroccan tile, lighting, and woodwork sourced directly from Morocco, alongside custom gold-leaf artistry by Sarah Pelfrey and Tina Davis.

Art remains at the heart of the Grand Bohemian guest experience. The reimagining includes 14 commissioned original works by French-Canadian artist Jean-Claude Roy, each specifically created for the guestrooms at Grand Bohemian Casa Monica, St. Augustine. The artwork is inspired by the landscapes, architecture, colors, and culture of Morocco, bringing a sense of place and discovery to the guestrooms.

At the heart of the transformation is Soltana Pool Lounge, a reimagined retreat defined by vibrant green and sun-washed terracotta. The space features an entirely new poolside bar, clad in handcrafted emerald Moroccan Zellige tile and illuminated by Moroccan brass light fixtures. The menu at Soltana Pool Lounge is inspired by the atmosphere of the refreshed space, blending Mediterranean flavors with Florida ingredients. Guests can choose from shareable bites and meals, including Moroccan Hummus with roasted garlic and lemon, served with crudité vegetables and pita, and Florida Fish Tacos, available grilled or crispy and topped with chipotle crema, mango pico, cabbage, cilantro, and lime. The cocktail program draws inspiration from Southern Spain and Moroccan beach clubs, bringing Moorish flavors such as mint and citrus poolside in signature drinks like the Marrakesh Limonana and Mandarin Mirage.

Located at 95 Cordova Street in the heart of St. Augustine's historic district, Grand Bohemian Casa Monica, St. Augustine, puts guests within walking distance of some of the city's most recognizable landmarks, including the Lightner Museum, Flagler College, and Castillo de San Marcos, as well as the waterfront, shops, and galleries. Guests can explore the city's history through local tours or spend the day enjoying the hotel's amenities, including The Spa at Grand Bohemian, the Grand Bohemian Art Gallery, beach concierge services, and access to Palencia Golf Club.

Recognized on Historic Hotels of America's Top 25 lists for its art, architecture, and storied past, Casa Monica also offers guests the chance to stay within a piece of St. Augustine's history. The Kessler Collection, a dynamic, family-led hospitality brand, is committed to art and culture, community enrichment, music, and distinctive design, attracting visitors that value authenticity, original thinking, and curiosity to its many hotels, restaurants, and additional experiential brands.