Walt Disney World is wasting no time with the lobby reimagining project at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort. The project, which was announced just over two weeks ago, will continue through the end of the year, but early work is progressing nicely. We stopped by Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort this morning to find that a lot of work has taken place already, including the removal of the iconic birdcage. Here’s a look around!
Grand Floridian Lobby Birdcage Removed
The first thing that you’ll notice in our photos below is the large birdcage that has sat on one side of the lobby for decades has been removed. The birdcage will be replaced by a walk-up bar that is inspired by the now-removed birdcage.
First, here’s a reminder of the concept art, showing a refreshed lobby, and the only major addition or change is the birdcage bar.
Here’s a look back at the birdcage after the walls went up, but before it was removed.
And here’s a look at the area from our visit to Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort earlier today.
Front Desk Operations Relocated
As we began walking around the construction walls, we noticed that an area of the lobby was roped off and that the Front Desk operations had been relocated into the sitting area. The move comes ahead of the arrival of construction walls for work on the check-in area. In speaking with Cast Members, more construction walls should surround the front desk very shortly.
The Front Desk operations have been moved into the seating area, with a more casual check-in process now in place. A Cast Member will welcome you to the hotel, and if your interaction requires the use of a computer, you’ll be welcomed into the sitting area. Some Cast Members are using desks, while others are using iPads to assist guests.
Cast Members that we spoke with were not sure how long this setup would be in place, but it is safe to say that we’re looking at weeks or months. It all depends on how much of a priority the work at the actual Front Desk is to the construction team.
It would stand to reason that the construction of the birdcage bar would take the longest, but we’re not privy to the exact construction schedule.
A nearby area next to the first-floor main entrance is also behind construction walls.
Garden View Tea Room Behind Construction Walls
Finally, the Garden View Tea Room is also behind construction walls. It will be receiving some work during the lobby reimagining, and more details are expected at a later date. So far, it doesn’t look like anyone has swung a hammer in the Tea Room with the exception of the crews installing the construction walls. We should see some movement in the coming weeks in this space.
As always, keep checking back with us here at BlogMickey.com as we continue to bring you the latest news, photos, and info from around the Disney Parks!
