Hotel Bel Air Private Viewing - Interior Design

Alphonso E. Bell created the Bel-Air Estates in 1922, and in 1946 Joseph Drown, a hotel entrepreneur from Texas began planning the layout of the hotel we now all know as Hotel Bel Air with the help of the architect Burton Schutt. His had a vision of creating a natural California oasis, planting palms, ficus trees and perennial blooms and opened the doors to the hotel on August 24, 1946.

Today this Dorchester Collection property, reopened it's doors just in time for Oscar season 2012, after a two year long renovation led by the team at Champalimaud in New York, which was responsible for all of the interiors throughout.

Another level of many layers and textures are the integral part of this interior design...
The wood flooring, outlined with a black trim throughout the main Lobby/Lounge area, lush carpeting, fabric covered walls and leather and velvet soft furnishings..

The central focal point is the main fireplace which anchors the large area as well as providing some shelter and privacy to those sitting and using this area as it is the main walk through to all the main areas of the hotel.

Bright, airy and lush while remaining inviting and comfortable. A timeless contemporary design which bridges the age barrier of the many frequent guests of this hotel throughout the year.

 

As I continued my private tour (see part 1) while in Los Angeles, I was taken by the comfort and design of the Presidential Suite.

As we enter off of the pool area into the hall way with these really beautiful case good pieces, we are also drawn into the Living Room by the stunning use of natural stone wall feature and fireplace surround.

The light fixture above the central table acts as an axis to and brings a great sense of warmth in the shimmer and glow of the materials used.

The floor plan of this suite allows you to see how really well organized and comfortable this suite is for a large family, a starlet or maybe even the President!

The Living Room provides a private entertaining area with easy access to the Kitchen, Dining Room and Bedroom areas, and with it's very neutral tones the striking blue of the drapery and the rusted orange of the arm chairs creates a strong statement.

In the Master Bedroom area, with en-suite bath, you have a comfortable space with neutral tones and a gorgeous pattern inlaid on the bathroom floor which continues into the shower.

As I entered into the Dining Room, I was immediately fascinated with the venetian plaster wall finish, with a tone on tone hand painted floral pattern in relief. Simply divine.

This pop of pink of this piece not only allows for the functionality of acting as a sideboard or small bar.. but in a galochat adds another really interesting layer to the play of textures in this room.

If you have a chance, you should spend the day visiting the hotel and having a wonderful lunch in the resturant. I am so grateful for the time provided by the fantastic staff allowing me to roam the halls and rooms taking pictures for these posts and especially on Oscars weekend.

Sadly, I didn't run into any of the nominees although I was assured that many Oscar attendees were at the hotel preparing.. My next time!

Wishing you all a great start to your week.