Where?
Downtown Santa Monica, seven blocks from the ocean. The hotel is housed across two buildings with contrasting styles; one is a 1928 Spanish Colonial Revival landmark building and the other is a contemporary new-build. Linked by a suspended bridge, it makes for a striking architectural spot in the city centre. Within walking distance is the beach, pier, plenty of boutiques and health-conscious cafés as well as the Wednesday Farmers Market.
Style
With leading American interior designer Kelly Wearstler at the helm, this hotel is a haven for the California style obsessed. Think nature-inspired palettes, light hardwood floors and organic textures. Artworks are by emerging local artists. “As with the design for all of the Proper properties we were intentional about working with local artists to bring a truly authentic and localised experience to Santa Monica Proper. Earthy, raw materials, organic textiles and a layering in of art and landscape bring a rich sensory feeling into the hotel,” explains Wearstler. The rich Moorish detailing and Art Deco ornamentation of the older building have been conserved and updated, while the new-build is monolithic in nature.
Ranging from 325 to 925 square feet, the design of the 271 rooms and suites is playful yet placid, layering muted tones and tactile textures with striking geometric shapes. Many guestrooms offer living spaces, others have balconies and terraces.
Which room?
For a characterful feel we would suggest opting for a room in the Landmark building. The Premier Kings have sitting areas styled with curvaceous, European mid-century inspired furniture, travertine baths, many with double vanities, and a bed dressed with imported linens. For an upgrade, ask for a version with a balcony. We loved the statement headboards and eclectic collection of vintage and modern furniture.
Extracurricular
For a homemade brunch or something baked and delicious head to the locally loved Huckleberry Cafe. It’s run by Josh Loeb and Zoe Nathan, both born and raised in Santa Monica, who fell in love while working together in their nearby restaurant Rustic Canyon (huckleberrycafe.com). There are plenty of options along the beach promenade, including Shutters for a drink or lunch right on the ocean (shuttersonthebeach.com).
Food & Drink
The rooftop deck and pool is the only of its kind in the downtown Santa Monica neighbourhood. It comes with cabanas and a restaurant with a beach-inspired bar. It’s just the spot to take in the Westside’s spectacular sunsets, sundowner in hand. Calabra, the inside/out bistro and bar, fuses Mediterranean and Californian inspired cuisine with delicious vegan options. It’s a great place for breakfast too. Alternatively, the lobby lounge offers a casual menu of snacks and crafted cocktails including an impressive collection of tequilas and mezcals alongside natural wines. Both are places to be seen.
Best for…
Soaking up that SoCal style and staying in luxurious surroundings in close proximity to the beach.
Details
Rooms from around £340 per night, 700 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401, +1 310-620-9990, properhotel.com.
