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6 Business Profiles 2014 Worcester Business Journal www.wbjournal.com i n 1987, the corner of Plantation Street and Route 9 was transformed from acres of grassy field to a new structure containing the Beechwood Inn, several retail stores, some offices and a local bank branch. The enterprise experienced significant financial difficulties and after two years of legal negotia- tions, Dr. Charles and Mrs. Janet Birbara became owners of the property, which is now the Beechwood Hotel. The devotion and passion of this couple have converted the original inn into a luxury boutique hotel, banquet facility and public restaurant, replete with a tasteful combination of historical treasures and modern-day amenities. In 1993, the former businesses that occupied the prop- erty had relocated and the Birbaras began a major reno- vation project that involved gutting entire floors, replac- ing 1980s décor with upscale furnishings and putting their personal touch on the hotel. Italian marble flooring, an antique carved, solid black walnut fireplace and an exquisite wooden ceiling greet guests as they enter the lobby. The eye is drawn to the vivid, museum-quality stained glass ceiling over the cen- ter staircase in the lobby. This artifact dates back to 1896 and originally graced a home in the Nob Hill section of San Francisco. Dr. Birbara's penchant for fine art is evident as you walk through the Beechwood's hallways where original artwork is displayed. Century-old posters by Hugo D'Alesi, early American lithography, lyric opera posters, even one rare painting of four kittens by Carlisle brings a touch of nostalgic sophistication to the hotel. One of the most unique attractions inside the Beechwood is the elegant chapel built in 1901, originally located inside the former Worcester City Hospital. In 1992, Dr. Birbara purchased the room and had it reconstructed inside the lower level of the hotel. The original stained glass and beautiful white oak paneling remains intact. Antique cast bronze sconces, dating back to 1830, and hanging lights rescued from a Masonic temple cast sublime light on the room, creating an ideal wedding venue. The adjacent ballroom, a centerpiece in its own right, features a solid maple ceiling and enormous hanging lights, custom designed for the space. Several meeting and conference rooms throughout the hotel reflect the same attention to detail and stylishness. Floor by floor, the Birbaras transformed the guest rooms into luxurious accommodations, each with its own special charm and character. All rooms contain high- quality furnishings, chic draperies, travertine marble vanities, refrigerators and all natural skin care products; some suites contain fireplaces. The newest amenity, a Keurig coffee maker, enables guests to enjoy their morn- ing brew in the privacy of their own room. "There are no cookie cutter rooms in the Beechwood," says Dr. Birbara. Technology has made its mark at the Beechwood; the entire facility offers wireless Internet access; each room contains an iPad, electronic "Do Not Disturb" sign and in-room electronic checkout. The Birbaras continued their renovation by adding Ceres Bistro, the Beechwood's first-class restaurant. High-backed booths offer privacy and a contemporary oval Avonite translucent bar is an ideal place to enjoy good conversation and the latest cocktail creation. The centerpiece of the res- taurant is a dazzling 19th century stained glass dome, originally on display in the atrium of a Boston building. The restaurant also boasts a private wine room, ideal for small gatherings and special events, as well as several meeting rooms. The Beechwood's chef prepares culinary gems sure to please even the most discerning gourmand. The Beechwood currently has 73 rooms and plans to add 27 more on the Plantation Street side of the building. "We would like to create a major presidential suite, a medical spa and pool," says Dr. Birbara. "We hope to begin construction in 2015." The Birbaras credit staff for helping to create a desti- nation venue of the highest quality that meets the needs of all guests. "Our staff are great contributors to our suc- cess. Without their energy and involvement, we would not succeed," he asserts. The Beechwood has won numerous awards and is the only hotel between Boston and the Berkshires to be named a four-diamond AAA hotel. The Beechwood is also a member of Worldhotels, an industry group that handpicks properties with a reputation for excellence, reflective of the local character. Staying at the Beechwood Hotel affords guests the opportunity to experience first-class hospitality at an affordable price. The Birbaras invite you to create memo- ries with a visit to the Beechwood. n The Beechwood Hotel w o r c e s t e r , m a Beechwood Hotel Address: 363 Plantation St., Worcester MA 01609 Phone: 508-453-1192 x198 Fax: 508-792-5205 Website: www.beechwoodhotel.com Product or Service: Full service hotel, banquet facility and public restaurant No. of Employees: 115 Head of Company: Mario Cuevas, general manager Year Founded: 1989 2011 1990