Who's Going
Nancy Reagan, Mariah Carey, Wolfgang Puck
Reason to Stay
Romantic Setting, Luxury Spa, Gourmet Eatery
Hotel Type
Luxury Hotel
Long considered the grand dame of the LA hotels scene, a 24-month remodel of the iconic Spanish-style urban resort results in a complete design overhaul by Rockwell Group subtly translated through Alexandra Champalimaud who utilizes themes of mid-century modern honed through her work at The Liberty Boston, St. Regis Beijing and forthcoming Ritz Carlton Rancho Mirage. Hotel purists may be shell-shocked to see the new lobby of Hotel Bel-Air, its new arched-iron windows igniting a bright and very-modern space with centerpiece fireplace elevated on a stone slab that manages to be both relevant and timeless in overall style. Hotel Bel-Air's lavish gardens and swan lake were meticulously preserved, but with new restaurant led by Wolfgang Puck with showy terrace of partitioned alcoves likely to be the city's new it-restaurant - especially in summer or cozy winter evenings. The Bar & Lounge maintain a more recognizable look albeit completely new with gentlemanly herringbone patterns, antiqued mirrors and woven-leather bar even if the dress code and legendary piano player are gone.
The Room
What was originally the real estate office for surrounding Bel-Air Estates residential development in the 1920s; the property and its adjacent horse-stables were developed as a lodge-style hideaway in the 1940s replacing its western-riding ring and homey charm with an elegant hotel retreat that evolved into an American icon now part of the Dorchester Collection - owned by the Sultan of Brunei. Those checking in discover Deluxe Rooms that incorporate natural stone floors, sophisticated but modern decor and free-form bathrooms. Suites that better utilize the property’s incredible outdoor spaces with lounge area, quirky whirlpools and sexier firepit. The Presidential Suite is perhaps the most ‘wow’ room of decadent private villa design with exaggerated outdoor space fit for a king or pop idol. The hotel’s iconic swimming pool remains much the same with its vintage tiles and preppy tanning scene but with access to the new La Prairie Spa with Joseph Martin salon and 24-hour gym that elevate the property to a resort status.
Preferred Room
Bel-Air Suite
Special Features
Residential Location, Removed Setting, Celebrity Clientele
Amenities
Restaurant, Lounge, Bar, Pool, Spa
