38 DIGS.NET
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7.12.2019
P R O F I L E | P R O P E R H OT E L
Designed by Kelly Wearstler and inspired by the tones and spirit of the Southern
California coastline, a Santa Monica hotel echoes eras past and present.
W R I T T E N B Y K A R I N E M O N I É
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ith its new project located at 700 Wilshire
Blvd., only a few blocks from the beach,
high-end lifestyle brand Proper Hospitality
combined historic and contemporary architecture. 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 e 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.
A PROPER STAY
