03/02/2026
The Hotel Normandie in San Juan, Puerto Rico, is a historic building that was opened in 1942 and added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1980. After closing in 2009, the hotel was purchased by the Ishay Group for $8.6 million, who plan to restore it and possibly convert some rooms into residences. The hotel has a picturesque location near Playa El Escambron Beach and San Juan National Historic Site.
The hotel’s design is inspired by the French transatlantic passenger ship SS Normandie, featuring Art Deco and Streamline Moderne styles. Despite past damage from Hurricane Georges, the structure has been remodeled and maintains its historical use with modifications.
The restoration plans for the Hotel Normandie in San Juan, Puerto Rico, are moving forward, albeit with some delays. The Ishay Group, led by Ezra “Eddie” Ishay, acquired the hotel in January 2022 for $8.6 million and plans to invest $100 million in restoration and modernization. The project aims to preserve the hotel’s original Art Deco design, including the iconic Gold Room, and add new luxury residences.
Key aspects of the restoration plan:
-Preservation of original design: The hotel’s original design, inspired by the French transatlantic SS Normandie, will be preserved, including the Gold Room and its Roman, Egyptian, and French Art Deco influences.
-New luxury residences:The top two floors will be rebuilt to their original design and integrity, featuring luxury residences.
-Renovation of surrounding areas:The Sixto Escobar park will be renovated, including a new parking lot and sports area.
-Environmental sustainability: The project aims to balance preservation with environmental sustainability.
The project is currently awaiting permits and is expected to take approximately two and a half years to complete.
