Santa Monica Proper Hotel by Kelly Wearstler

Luxury boutique hotel chain, Proper Hotels, collaborated with renowned interior designer Kelly Wearstler on the refurbishment of their Santa Monica Hotel. Located on the beachside of Santa Monica, Los Angeles, this hotel gem resonates upon the buildings history which is the original 1920s Santa Monica Professional Building and was originally used for medical suites. In collaboration with Howard Laks Architects, Kelly Wearstler re-designed the building to feature a 271 room hotel, emulating features of the original building whilst bringing in her own touch of California Dreaming.

The inspiration behind the design was the history, iconography and climate of Los Angeles, as a way for guests to resonate within the hotel. Use of bold colours, textures and patterns is what Wearstler is most known for, and this is definitely mimicked throughout the interiors of the hotel. The hotel features a combination of contemporary pieces and reclaimed vintage finds from local vintage stores, bringing in an eclectic mix within the beach setting of the hotel.

Interpretations of coastal elements flow throughout the hotel, with the most prominent feature - CURVES emulating the soft waves of the beach. Level of detailing within the hotel is second to none, with every element selectively designed, from the gaping curvaceous features within the lobby lounge, to the reclaimed oak flooring with the pattern inspired by the birds-eye view of a beach umbrella.

The hotel lobby features a variety of seating areas, whereby guests can choose whether they want to laze on the lounge chairs, have a seat on the chairs and work on their laptops, or simply relax and a have a drink at the bar. It all just feels like one large living room as that is the main design objective achieved within the space - for the ability for all guests to sit back and relax.

Known as 'The Grotto', this library and art gallery combo space is an analogy for a living room overlooking the ocean. It features a combination of vintage and contemporary books, along with a comprehensive art collection sourced from local artists.

The design of the bedroom suites emulates a Mediterranean-retro retreat feel, featuring a mix of organic and natural tones and textures. The rooms are divided as per the hotel wing which they are located on - either contemporary or retro. The contemporary wing features exposed concrete walls and structured Mid-Century furniture, whilst the retro wing contains soft wallpaper, Art-Deco lighting and subway tiles.

The picturesque rooftop deck and pool brings elements of the outdoors, indoors and vice versa, with its location situated above a creative hub of boutiques, cafes, farmers markets, and of course, the beach. The rooftop resonates a Mediterranean resort, with it use of potted greenery, palm trees, structured architectural elements, and of course, evening ambient lighting.

For more information about the Santa Monica Proper Hotel, visit https://www.properhotel.com/santa-monica/.