One building dates back to circa 1928 and was originally designed by American architect Arthur E. Harvey in Spanish Colonial Revival style with Moorish and Art Deco ornamentation.
The other is new construction featuring a completely different, contemporary look. Both structures are linked by a suspended bridge and constitute the Santa Monica Proper Hotel.
“We’ve thoughtfully restored the historic building to its original glory, from the exterior details to the rich materials we kept inside,” said Brian De Lowe, president and co-founder of Proper Hospitality and The Kor Group.
Responsible for designing all the interior spaces, design star Kelly Wearstler drew inspiration from the beauty and hues of the coastline. Both in the public areas and the 271 guest rooms and suites—ranging from 325 to 925 square feet—the color palette is neutral and sandy.
Materials such as wood and stone are mostly natural, the textures are organic and the patterns bold, adding visual surprises. Furnishings of different styles (custom and vintage, raw and refined) impart a feeling of elegance and comfort, while reflecting the relaxed California lifestyle in a timeless manner.
“As with the design for all of the Proper properties, we were intentional about working with local artists to bring a truly authentic and localized experience to Santa Monica Proper,” says Kelly Wearstler.
“Earthy, raw materials, organic textiles and a layering in of art and landscape bring a rich sensory feeling into the hotel.” Ben Medansky, Morgan Peck, Tanya Aguiniga, Len Klikunas and Bradley Duncan are some of the artists whose works adorn the spaces.
Helmed by chefs Jessica Koslow and Gabriela Camara, who mix the flavors and techniques of Mexico and California, the ground floor restaurant-bar Onda is one of three dining options at Santa Monica Proper Hotel.
Situated on the same level is also the lobby lounge Palma. On the seventh floor, the indoor-outdoor seafood restaurant, bar and lounge Calabra—led by Executive Chef Kaleo Adams—and the only rooftop pool deck in Santa Monica offers panoramic views with spectacular sunsets.
To complement the experience, the hotel comprises a 2,500-square-foot gym, more than 8,000 square feet of meeting space and the first-ever Surya Ayurvedic hotel spa—a 3,000-square-foot space created in collaboration with Ayurvedic expert and founder of Surya Spa Martha Soffer. Opening in November, the spa will provide physical, mental and spiritual programs including massages and treatments, as well as cooking, yoga and meditation.
Through its soulful interior design and atmosphere bathed with natural light and ocean breezes, this new hotel is an ode to Santa Monica history, landscape and way of life.
Proper Hotel, Santa Monica
PHOTOGRAPHS: COURTESY OF THE INGALLS