Iron Hill Construction Management recently completed a $10 million renovation of The Palace at Somerset Park in the Somerset section of Franklin Township, including major updates of its two distinct neo-Palladian-inspired mansions. — Photos courtesy: Iron Hill
By Joshua Burd
The team behind a well-known banquet hall in Somerset County has completed a major renovation of the property, seeking to update and enhance it for a new generation of events.
According to Iron Hill Construction Management, the $10 million refresh of The Palace at Somerset Park was meant in part to celebrate its two decades in operation in the Somerset section of Franklin Township. That included a first phase completed last spring, which entailed updates of the property’s Grand Foyer with new carpets, wall coverings, millwork and lighting, while the East Ballroom was redone with soft, neutral and sophisticated decor.
Additionally, Iron Hill said it transformed The Palace’s East Library into a trendy and contemporary cocktail hour space and the gallery into a stylish lounge. Lastly, the Versailles Wedding Suite was redecorated and repositioned as an ideal space for pre-wedding preparations.
“This project was especially meaningful for our team, having originally built The Palace nearly 20 years ago,” said Mark Waddell, director of operations at Iron Hill. “The goal was to modernize the space while preserving the character and quality that has made it such a well-known venue.”
SLIDESHOW: The Palace at Somerset Park
The construction firm, an affiliate of J.G. Petrucci Co. Inc., said phase two began in early 2026 and opened to the public this spring, including a full makeover of the grand West Ballroom with new chandeliers, carpets and furnishing. The team reimagined the West Library into an intimate bar area designed for pre-reception drinks, adding that The Palace has introduced a brand-new West Groom Suite with a TV, poker table and salon station, as well as a top-to-bottom remodel of the Kensington Bridal Suite.
The Davidson Avenue property — comprised of two distinct neo-Palladian inspired mansions — plays host to a long list of top business events including NAIOP New Jersey’s annual Commercial Real Estate Awards Gala. Its latest update also includes new indoor-outdoor pavilions in both sections, expanding upon existing cocktail hour spaces and providing guests with fire pits, expansive views and fresh air starting this month.
“Every update was made with our guests in mind,” said Marc Hamel, president and general manager at The Palace. “From more inviting cocktail areas to upgraded suites and new indoor-outdoor spaces, we’ve created an environment that feels both elevated and comfortable- so every moment of the celebration feels special!”
