Disney's Art of Animation Resort Gets Major Makeover with Immersive Themed Rooms
The Walt Disney World's Art of Animation Resort is undergoing a major renovation, starting with The Little Mermaid building. A model test room has been built inside this building to test new designs and features before they are implemented in the actual rooms.
Nerdist was given exclusive access to this model room, which is currently being tested by employees, executives, and Imagineers. The room is a vast improvement over the current Little Mermaid rooms, with a lighter, brighter, and more varied aquatic color scheme, character paintings on every wall, and playful decor.
The new design also includes a Murphy bed that will allow for both more space and a place to sit and eat during the day. This is a much-needed pragmatic improvement for adults and makes it more enjoyable for kids. The room is geared towards families with youngsters and aims to immerse guests in the Disney bubble.
The model Little Mermaid room was compared to the current Lion King suite, which will also undergo renovations soon. While the Lion King design is described as 'whimsical but tranquil', the Little Mermaid room feels like it's hosting a party. Imagineers aim to create something unique in each building so that every stay feels different.
The Art of Animation Resort has four themed buildings, with three featuring family suites and one consisting of standard rooms, including The Little Mermaid building. This remodel is part of Disney's ongoing efforts to reinvest in classic rides and resorts, following the recent refurbishments of Big Thunder Mountain and Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin.