Travel Weekly’s editor at large recently enjoyed a stay at the Santa Monica Proper Hotel, a 267 room hotel positioned on sun-drenched Wilshire Boulevard within walking distance to the beach.
Built alongside a classic 1920’s landmark building which forms part of the complex, The Proper Santa Monica is unique blend of traditional and contemporary architecture.
Standing proudly against the iconic Los Angeles backdrop of clear blue skies, rows of palm trees and snow covered mountains framing the city, the hotel is set back from the ocean and the bustle of the famous Santa Monica Pier and boardwalk making it the perfect oasis to return to.
Look And Feel On Arrival
Designed by the renowned American interior designer Kelly Wearstler who has collaborated with furniture makers, artists & ceramicists to achieve a stunning result.
Although large with 267 rooms and 8 floors when we entered the hotel we felt instantly drawn into the luxurious lobby & intimate lounge areas.
The interior details exude warmth, texture with a mix of different furniture pieces that blend seamlessly together to create multiple cosy living spaces.
A palette of textural, soft, neutral colours and lush fabrics interspersed with African inspired artefacts and oversized palm trees also add to the ambience.
Whether there for work, meeting friends for a drink or just reading in a quiet corner of the library there is a place for everyone.
Rooms
Again the palette is soft and textural with a mid century feel, beyond comfortable over sized beds with thick mattresses and crisp white bedlinen – lots of lovely well thought out details & materials to invite you into the space.
In essence we didn’t feel like we were staying in a large hotel, more like a lovely bedroom in a someone’s beautiful country home!
Most rooms have views over the Californian landscape with a light and airy feel which adds to the feeling of calm & serenity.
Food
We dined at the Calabra rooftop on delicious Mediterranean inspired cuisine and as part of The Proper Hotel ethos of sustainability we enjoyed an array of organically grown & sourced dishes and wines to match.
Service
Staff members on hand to assist you or just say hello – they do love Australians and are always interested to hear that we travel so far!
The housekeeping was also second to none – friendly, smiling and our rooms were immaculately clean and tidy at the end of the day – again a small detail but an important one.
Overall experience.
It was such a treat to stay at The Proper Santa Monica absorbing the visual feast of Kelly Wearstler’s sumptuous and clever interior – we definitely did not want to leave.
