Hotel Palomar Los Angeles–Beverly Hills
Boutique properties embrace local influences
Located on tony Wilshire Boulevard, Hotel Palomar Los Angeles–Beverly Hills will wrap up an $11 million renovation this month. This refresh draws inspiration from independent film, with cinematic nods throughout the hotel and restaurant. Materials such as scaffolding sourced from old sound stages are repurposed as sculptural elements. Theatrical lighting and layers of black steel, corrugated metal panels and aluminum offer a sophisticated juxtaposition against a subdued neutral color palette.
The top-to-bottom transformation features a new restaurant, reimagined public spaces and renovations to all 264 guest rooms. It offers 5,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, including a 2,100-square-foot ballroom.
“Hotel Palomar Los Angeles–Beverly Hills’ complete renovation reflects the rhythm of Los Angeles, layering the rebellious spirit and energy of a studio sound stage with subtle cool, sophisticated California style,” says Ed Virtue, general manager and Southern California area director of operations for Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants. “We can’t wait to invite locals and travelers alike to experience our new unconventional character and bold vibe.”
LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort, a Noble House Resort in Naples, Florida, completed a $6 million renovation in December, including upgrades to the 85-room Beach House building. In addition to an ocean-inspired color scheme, the building has new hallway artwork that showcases complementary, vibrant and abstract designs. Located on the Gulf of Mexico, LaPlaya has a total of 189 guest rooms and suites, and 12,000 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor meeting space. Besides a full-service spa and award-winning dining, guests really appreciate the property’s beach butler service. LaPlaya’s par-72 Robert Cupp-designed golf course is less than 5 miles away.
Hewing Hotel in Minneapolis opened in November inside a converted 1897 farm implement warehouse. The name Hewing pays tribute to the loggers who once worked in the building and pioneered Minneapolis a century ago. It features old-growth beams and posts harvested from Minnesota’s pine forests. The upscale independent hotel features 124 guest rooms and a 3,000-square-foot ballroom. The new cornerstone of the budding North Loop also boasts the destination restaurant Tullibee, which is overseen by Grae Nonas, named Food & Wine’s Best New Chef in 2015. A scenic rooftop terrace and bar afford views of the Minneapolis skyline.
The US Grant, a Luxury Collection Hotel, has been a San Diego icon since 1910. It wrapped up a $13 million refresh in January. Concept curation by Rodrigo Vargas Design highlights the hotel’s multifaceted heritage, including its San Diego location, its ownership by the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation and its presidential namesake. The comprehensive restyling includes the grand lobby, meeting and event venues, expanded fitness center, and all 270 guest rooms and suites. Built by the son of the 18th U.S. president to honor his father, The US Grant has 33,000 sq. ft. of event space. The 5,632-square-foot Bivouac Ballroom has been returned to its 1910 origin, with pendants reminiscent of the 1920s and a distinctive vaulted ceiling.
“The continued preservation of our historical landmark remains a priority,” says Doug Korn, general manager of The US Grant. “With the completion of this refresh, we are excited for guests and locals alike to experience the design enhancements throughout the hotel, and hope that we have succeeded in sharing our storied history through a more modern lens.”
