Disney did not reveal a lot of information regarding its Ko O'lina resort during the D23 Expo. However, between the resort model and concept artwork on display, and discussions with Disney Cast Members present, many interesting details about this project continue to emerge.
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Looking down on the resort main entrance
Ground-level view of the resort entrance. According to one Disney staffer, resort completion will occur in phases. These units closest to the lobby will be among the first available when the resort opens in 2011 while additional construction continues outward toward the beach.
Concept artwork for resort lobby (copyright 2009 Disney.) Imagineer Joe Rohde, known for his work at Disney's Animal Kingom, has been assigned to shepherd the Hawaii resort project.
Side view of the resort. Note the quiet pool and multi-level parking structure.
The expansive pool area will certainly rival Stormalong Bay at Disney's Yacht and Beach Club Resorts
Another view of the pool
Concept artwork for lazy river (copyright 2009 Disney)
Resort snorkeling experience (copyright 2009 Disney)
Looking back at the resort from the beach. With many rooms sitting perpendicular to the lagoon, one may question how many ocean view rooms the hotel will contain. According to the floorplan below, clever angling of room windows will provide a clear view of the water from many side-facing guest rooms.
Blue shading has been applied to illustrate the location of windows and balcony doors. The red outlines denote the proposed location of sofas/sofabeds in villa living rooms and lockoff studio units.
Another view looking back at the resort from the beach. Hawaii law prohibits designating beaches as private, which is why a public walkway separates the resort from the lagoon.
