An Art Deco Haven of Timeless Style

Situated in the vibrant city of Santa Monica, California, the Georgian Hotel stands as a testament to timeless elegance and the allure of the Art Deco era. With its iconic turquoise façade and rich history, this historic landmark has been a haven for Hollywood stars and discerning travelers since its inception in 1933.

This haven for design enthusiasts and travelers alike boasts an immersive Art Deco experience, transporting you to a world of geometric patterns, rich textures, and timeless elegance. From the meticulously curated lobby to the vibrant Sunset Bar and the oceanfront dining room, every corner whispers tales of sophistication and style.

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The Birth of a Landmark

In the roaring 1920s and early 1930s, California experienced a golden age of hospitality, and Los Angeles became a magnet for those seeking adventure and luxury. Inspired by this vibrant atmosphere, Rosamond Borde commissioned architect M. Eugene Durfee to design a grand hotel that would capture the essence of the era. The result was the Georgian Hotel, an architectural masterpiece that seamlessly blended the Romanesque Revival and Art Deco styles. When its doors opened in 1933, the hotel quickly became a haven for the rich, famous, and infamous, with luminaries like Carole Lombard, Clark Gable, and “Bugsy” Siegel seeking refuge within its walls.

Art Deco: The Epitome of Glamour

Art Deco, with its bold geometric shapes, luxurious materials, and sleek lines, perfectly encapsulates the glamour and sophistication of the 1930s. The Georgian Hotel’s interior design pays homage to this iconic style, transporting guests back in time to an era of opulence and refinement. The lobby, adorned with original moldings, medallions, and archways, exudes a sense of nostalgia while embracing a fresh, glamorous ambiance. The use of sumptuous velvet, intricate lighting fixtures, and imported Italian marble adds a touch of luxury to every corner, creating a truly immersive Art Deco experience.

A Blue Beacon with a Touch of Turquoise

From a distance, the Georgian Hotel’s facade instantly captures attention with its striking turquoise blue paint job gracing the facade. This bold color choice is not just aesthetically pleasing; it’s a historical reference to the Streamline Moderne movement, an offshoot of Art Deco characterized by aerodynamic curves and bold colors. The blue acts as a beacon, beckoning guests to step into a world of timeless elegance and Art Deco charm.

Bespoke Bellhops

Upon arrival, you’re greeted with charm and smiles of dashing bellhops hunkered under colorful fringed umbrellas to whisk your luggage away. Dressed in crisp uniforms inspired by the Art Deco era, they sport double-breasted jackets, flat caps, and bow ties, evoking a sense of classic elegance and impeccable service. Each uniform is adorned with a subtle geometric pattern, a nod to the hotel’s signature style.

These seemingly small details go a long way in creating a cohesive and immersive experience. The bellhops’ uniforms, the charming umbrellas, and the bold blue facade are not just practical elements; they are carefully curated touches that transport you back to the glamour and sophistication of the 1930s, making your stay at the Georgian Hotel an unforgettable journey through time.

Luxe Lobby

Upon entering the lobby, prepare to be swept away by the hotel’s captivating design. Sunlight streams through original arched windows, illuminating the intricate ceiling moldings and gleaming terrazzo floors. Scalloped-back banquettes upholstered in plush velvets invite you to settle in and soak up the atmosphere, while geometric patterns dance across the walls and carpets.

Sunset Terrace

Sundrenched Elegance: Unveiling the Sunset Terrace at the Georgian Hotel

As the afternoon sun bathes Santa Monica in a golden glow, step onto the Sunset Terrace at the Georgian Hotel and prepare to be transported to an oasis of coastal charm. This open-air haven, overlooking the glistening Pacific Ocean, seamlessly blends Art Deco grandeur with Californian ease, offering an alfresco dining experience unlike any other.

Imagine yourself settling into a comfortable chair on the terrace, the vibrant blue and ivory color palette echoing the ocean’s hues. Geometric patterns subtly woven into the furniture and accents pay homage to the hotel’s Art Deco heritage, while lush greenery adds a touch of natural harmony. The gentle sea breeze carries the scent of salt air and jasmine, creating a sensory escape that complements the breathtaking panoramic views.

The Sunset Bar: Where History Meets Modernity

One of the highlights of the Georgian Hotel is the Sunset Bar, a mesmerizing space that perfectly captures the spirit of the hotel. Nestled under an original archway, this horseshoe-shaped bar is clad in quartz and marble, adorned with brass light posts, and surrounded by plush velvet and leather stools.

The Sunset Bar seamlessly blends the hotel’s historic charm with modern sensibilities, inviting guests to indulge in artisanal cocktails while immersing themselves in the captivating atmosphere. The mirrored walls and geometric lighting create a captivating ambiance, while plush velvet seating and intimate booths offer a sense of comfort and exclusivity.

Beyond the aesthetics, the Sunset Bar offers an equally impressive menu. Expertly crafted cocktails, inspired by both classic and contemporary creations, pay homage to the Art Deco era with unique ingredients and presentations. Whether you’re seeking a timeless Old Fashioned (always my go-to!) or a more adventurous concoction, the talented bartenders are sure to whip up something unforgettable.

Restoring the Grandeur:

To restore the Georgian Hotel to its former glory, BLVD Hospitality partnered with Fettle Design, a renowned interior design studio based in Los Angeles and London. Their collaborative efforts focused on preserving the building’s original charm while infusing it with contemporary elements inspired by the Art Deco era. The result is a harmonious blend of past and present, where historic archways and crown details coexist with custom furnishings, rich textiles, and ornate lighting fixtures. Fettle Design’s meticulous attention to detail ensures that every aspect of the hotel’s interiors reflects the spirit of the Art Deco period.

Diving Deeper into the Art Deco Elegance of the Georgian Hotel:

The Georgian Hotel embodies the spirit of Art Deco in every corner, meticulously recreating the glamour and sophistication of this iconic design movement. To truly appreciate its beauty, let’s delve into some key elements that define the hotel’s interior:

Geometric Forms:

Sharp geometric shapes dominate the design, seen in everything from the chevrons on the lobby carpet to the sunburst motifs adorning the bar ceiling. These clean lines and angles evoke a sense of modernity and precision, characteristic of the Art Deco era.

Luxurious Materials:

The opulence of Art Deco shines through the use of rich materials like polished marble, gleaming chrome, and plush velvet. The emerald green quartzite reception desk and mirrored walls in the bar add a touch of drama and grandeur.

Bold Colors:

While the overall palette leans towards neutrals like black, ivory, and cream, pops of bold colors like emerald green, gold, and coral add vibrancy and visual interest. These accent colors were often inspired by exotic locales and modern technology, reflecting the spirit of exploration and innovation prevalent in the 1930s.

Streamlined Elegance:

Despite the use of rich materials and bold accents, the overall design maintains a sense of sleekness and sophistication. Furniture features curved edges and minimal ornamentation, reflecting the Art Deco emphasis on functionality and streamlined aesthetics.

Art Deco Details:

Look closely, and you’ll discover subtle nods to the Art Deco era woven into the fabric of the hotel. Chandeliers feature geometric patterns, while geometric motifs grace the door handles and elevator doors. These subtle touches add depth and authenticity to the overall design.

The lobby’s intricate ceiling moldings, geometric carpet patterns, and scalloped-back banquettes further emphasize the Art Deco influence.

The bar’s emerald green and gold color scheme, mirrored walls, and geometric lighting create a truly immersive experience. The horseshoe-shaped bar itself echoes the lobby’s reception desk, fostering a sense of connection and community. Plush velvet seating and intimate booths offer a touch of comfort and exclusivity, perfect for savoring a handcrafted cocktail amidst the Art Deco ambiance.

The Art Deco look is a historic style that’s come back in a fresh, modern way. For tips on how to bring this trending look into your home, get the guide here:

Final Summary

As the sun sets over the picturesque Santa Monica coastline, the Georgian Hotel stands as a beacon of timeless elegance and Art Deco splendor. From its iconic turquoise façade to its meticulously restored interiors, every detail of the hotel tells a story of grandeur, glamour, and the rich history that surrounds it. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a traveler in search of a truly immersive experience, the Georgian Hotel invites you to step into a bygone era and create your own unforgettable memories in the heart of Santa Monica. It promises an unforgettable experience that immerses you in the timeless allure of this iconic era.

On your next visit to Santa Monica, be sure to stop and experience the Allure of the Art Deco Style at the Georgian Hotel. For more must-see design destinations in Los Angeles, check out more Roam & Reside recommendations, like the Proper Hotel in DTLA.