Santa Monica Proper Hotel
Photo Credit: Matthieu Salvaing
In our sixth edition of Cultivating Conversations, join us as we speak to Patrick Pahlke, the Vice President, Commercial for Proper Hotels. Here, Patrick shines a spotlight on Santa Monica Proper, highlighting its exciting new wellness concept, it's pivot during COVID-19, and the inspiration that designer Kelly Wearstler pulled from the surrounding California coast. Opened in the summer of 2019 and billed as the first and only luxury lifestyle hotel to open in Santa Monica’s history, this property is a destination in its own right. Dive into this visually arresting space with us and savor the sweet flavor of quintessential Californian hospitality.
“Santa Monica Proper is a luxury lifestyle hotel in California, featuring design by visionary, Kelly Wearstler.”
The property consists of 271 rooms + suites, the only rooftop pool deck in Santa Monica and restaurants including Mediterranean-focused Calabra and Japanese-inspired Olea Garden. Amenities such as wellness classes + treatments are available in addition to forthcoming Surya Spa, opening in 2021.
Photo Credit: The Ingalls
ARE YOU SEEING A CHANGE IN CONSUMER'S DESIRE
FOR MORE OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES?
Absolutely. We are grateful that our property has so many beautiful, common outdoor spaces for our guests to safely spend time with their pod. We have also found new ways to bring Proper’s luxury amenities and partnerships to the outdoors such as eyebrow sculpting by Chanel's brow artist, Jimena Garcia and private reformer pilates outside courtesy of Katie Tayle and Core L'etoile. This winter we will debut our collaboration with Santa Monica Picnic Co. to offer guests elegant, comfortable picnic experiences on the beach – a direct response to the desire for more experiences in nature.
Photo Credit: The Ingalls
HOW DOES SANTA MONICA PROPER CONNECT WITH THE NATURAL WORLD?
Santa Monica Proper is walking distance to the beach.
“the property’s design finds inspiration in the organic tones and textures of the local coastline.”
The rooms and suites also optimize the city’s ocean breezes and natural light while California sunsets can be enjoyed on our expansive rooftop. The best hikes in LA county are also very close to the property!
Photo Credit: Matthieu Salvaing
HOW DOES COMMUNITY PLAY A ROLE IN YOUR HOTEL?
“We encourage guests to explore the neighborhood where we are located.”
Whether it’s hopping on one of our bikes to ride along the beach bike path, checking out the famous Wednesday Farmers Market or walking to a local boutique or restaurant. Our partnerships with Ricari Studios, Core L’etoile pilates, Jimena Garcia and Santa Monica Picnic Co. are also ways that we are able to support individuals and small businesses in the community.
Photo Credit: Matthieu Salvaing
“I love seeing how our guests capture their experiences on social media.”
By now, I know the hotel like the back of my hand but seeing it through the eyes of others is refreshing.
Photo Credit: Matthieu Salvaing
HOW MUCH OF CALIFORNIA'S HERITAGE INSPIRED THE DESIGN OF THE SPACE?
The entire design concept is inspired by the Westside of Los Angeles, where the desert meets the ocean–
“hence the natural color tones and bohemian vibe.”
Photo Credit: Matthieu Salvaing
ARE THERE NEW EXPERIENCES COMING TO THE PROPERTY?
We have a lot in the pipeline for 2021 but we’re very excited for the grand opening of Surya Spa at the beginning of next year.
“Surya will be the only Ayurvedic spa in a California hotel.”
The spa will emphasize Eastern inspired wellness with custom-designed programs for physical, mental and spiritual health.
Photo Credit: The Ingalls and Matthieu Salvaing
DO YOU SEE THE FUTURE OF TRAVEL CHANGING?
Travel has changed but I have no doubt that once we come out the other side of this it…
“people will be yearning to travel more than ever.”
While hotels have all seen a decrease in overseas travel, Santa Monica Proper is an ideal destination for locals to enjoy a safe staycation or to use as an office space through our partnership with Industrious.
Photo Credit: Matthieu Salvaing
