LOS ANGELES — February 2012 - With more than 92,000 guest rooms and suites, Los Angeles is the fourth-largest lodging market in the United States. And there are no signs of slowing down the growth, with more hotel developments on the horizon. Meanwhile, many of LA’s tried-and-true properties are looking like new as they complete or embark on renovations, from basic remodels to extreme makeovers.
The following is a summary of the latest hotel developments, by geographic region — Downtown, Hollywood, San Fernando Valley, Westside, LAX Area, Coastal, and Neighboring Regions. (Editor’s note: Media contacts are for media use only.)
The Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites — In October 2011, the iconic Westin Bonaventure Hotel and Suites, Los Angeles celebrates the completion of its comprehensive renovations throughout the hotel. Significant upgrades and refreshed designs enhance the experience for hotel guests whether traveling for business or pleasure. The all encompassing renovation has rejuvenated 1,209 guestrooms and 145 suites, public areas, the Lobby Court and Lobby Lounge, LA Prime, BonaVista Lounge, the front desk, the outdoor pool, and all 110,000-square-feet of meeting, event and banquet space. In 2009, the Westin Bonaventure became the first LA hotel to receive the Green Seal certification in recognition of its efforts to conserve resources, prevent pollution and minimize waste. The Westin Bonaventure is Los Angeles’ largest convention hotel with 1,354 deluxe guest rooms and over 110,000 square feet of meeting and exhibit space including the city’s largest ballroom. Guestrooms and suites offer floor-to-ceiling views of the Los Angeles skyline and mountains beyond, and the signature Westin Heavenly Bed® and Heavenly Bath. 404 S. Figueroa St., Los Angeles, 90071, 213.624.1000; www.thebonaventure.com. Media Contact: Michael Czarcinski, Managing Director, 213.624.1000; michael.czarcinski@westin.com
Hilton Checkers Los Angeles — This historic, boutique-style hotel completed renovations of its lobby, bar and guest rooms in late 2009. The hotel’s 3,300 square feet of meeting space has also been transformed to include leading-edge technology and quality furnishings. With these upgrades, the Hilton Checkers Los Angeles also welcomes a new chef to its Checkers Downtown restaurant. David Baker, with more than 10 years of experience at luxury properties — including Montage, known for innovative dishes — has added a new, market-inspired menu. New renovations complement the already-renovated rooftop deck, which offers spectacular views of Downtown Los Angeles and is available for private events. Features include a new rooftop bar, flat-screen TV and new furniture. Checkers has also completed renovation of its restaurant patio, which includes new furnishings, surrounded by juniper trees under an iron pergola. The hotel has 188 guest rooms and suites. 535 S.Grand Ave., Los Angeles 90071; 213.624.0000; www.hiltoncheckers.com. Media contact: Donna Lewis, 213.891.0501, donnal@hiltoncheckers.com
The Hotel at the Los Angeles Athletic Club – The Hotel at the Los Angeles Athletic Club (LAAC) features 72 completely renovated, urban-chic hotel rooms and suites. Original artwork, grandfather clocks and warm lighting showcase the property as an entirely new hotel experience. Each room features distinctive, custom-made furnishings, luxurious bedding, Roman shades, flat-screen televisions, wireless Internet and original art from the club’s historical vault. The LAAC's new hotel property has nine themed one-bedroom club suites. Each suite creates an extraordinary experience that enables guests to transplant themselves into another realm. The unique suite products are: the Yacht Club, the Country Club, the Polo Club, the Racquet Club, the Beach Club, the Athletic Club and the Social Club. Additionally, there are the sportier Trojan Club and Bruin Club, which offer USC and UCLA fans a place to sleep amid the colors they bleed. In addition, there is the third-floor Trophy Room, which serves a dual purpose as a 1,000-bottle, walnut-constructed wine cellar and a private venue for chef tasting dinners. 431 W. Seventh St., Los Angeles 90071; 213.625.2211;www.laac.com. Media Contact: Cory Hathaway, 213.630.5206, cory.hathaway@laac.net
Millennium Biltmore Hotel Los Angeles – The historic Los Angeles Biltmore Hotel, an architectural landmark and long-time favorite of the Hollywood elite, recently upgraded two of its Classic Room floors to Executive Level floors designed specifically with the business traveler in mind. The re-designed rooms feature new desks and credenzas, ergonomic leather chairs and 42-inch flat-panel televisions. In addition, a brand-new bedding package was recently introduced in all guest rooms. Wireless Internet access is available throughout the hotel, and all meeting space is equipped for full audio/visual, high-speed Internet and the latest technology. The hotel has 635 guest rooms and 48 suites. 506 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles 90071; 213.624.1011; www.thebiltmore.com. Media Contact: Janét Chiu, 213.612.1662, jchiu@mill-usa.com
Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza – In March 2011, Downtown’s only four-diamond hotel completed a $15-million dollar renovation of its 453 guest rooms, which now feature new furniture, bedding, curtains, wall coverings, carpet, minibars, flat screen TVs, artwork, upgraded bathroom fixtures and new showers. All meeting space was renovated with new carpet, airwalls, wall coverings, foyer furniture, banquet chairs and board rooms. 251 S. Olive St., Los Angeles 90012; 213.617.3300; www.omnilosangeles.com. Media Contact: Chaya Donne, 213.356.4010, cdonne@omnihotels.com
Sheraton Los Angeles Downtown — The Sheraton Los Angeles Downtown has started a renovation of its guest corridors and guest room furnishings, adding new drapes and sheers, while continuing additions to the ballroom level as they pertain to upgrades to the existing meeting space. Meeting space, up to 6,000 square feet, has been added to the second floor meeting complex. Additional changes will take place throughout 2012. The hotel completed a $12-million renovation to its guest rooms in 2010. The property also features The Link @ Sheraton, an Internet cafe in the hotel's lobby. Internet access at The Link is provided free of charge for guests of the hotel. The Sheraton Los Angeles has 485 guest rooms and suites. 711 S. Hope St., Los Angeles 90017; 213.488.3500; www.sheraton.com. Media contact: Andrew Kidde, 213.612.3110, Andrew.kidde@sheratonla.com
The Standard, Downtown LA — The Standard, Downtown LA recently reopened The Shop, a 144-square-foot emporium located at street level, which features limited-edition products from Los Angeles designers and new lines from the Standard brand. In 2008, the Standard, Downtown LA finished a renovation of its “LOFT” meeting spaces. The hotel has a rooftop pool and bar featuring stunning panoramic views of LA, a 24-hour restaurant and extensive business facilities that have recently been renovated with new furnishings. The Standard, Downtown LA has 207 guest rooms and suites. 550 S. Flower St., Los Angeles 90071; 213.892.8080; www.standardhotels.com/los-angeles/. Media contact: Elizabeth Grillos, 213.892.8080; EGrillos@standardhotel.com
O Hotel Los Angeles — This historic 1920s hotel reopened its glass doors in late 2007. A serene haven for the business traveler, urbanite and out-of-towner, O Hotel offers 68 deluxe rooms with upgraded comforts, modern amenities and the efficient service expected of well-tended boutique establishments. A South Park/Financial District Luxury Spa, that will provide manicures, pedicures, facials, and massages, will open in the hotel in Spring 2012. Located in the heart of the City’s Financial District and part of the ongoing revitalization of Downtown, O Hotel is across the street from shops and dining at Macy’s Plaza, only a few blocks from STAPLES Center, the Nokia Theater, the Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Los Angeles Convention Center. A new dining option at the hotel is Bar & Kitchen, a seasonal American restaurant featuring market-fresh cuisine. 819 S. Flower St., Los Angeles, 90017, 213.623.9904, http://www.ohotelgroup.com/. Media contact: Nikki Castellanos, 213.623.9904, nikki@ohotelgroup.com
Renaissance Hollywood Hotel & Spa — The Renaissance Hollywood Hotel & Spa, located at Hollywood & Highland Center, a shopping and entertainment complex and home to the Academy Awards® ceremonies, offers 632 distinctive guest rooms, 33 suites, and the unforgettable 3,500-square-foot Panorama Suite. Well known as being a favorite of major production companies and business travelers alike, the Renaissance Hollywood Hotel & Spa embodies modern luxury accented by classic Hollywood charm, featuring the distinctive restaurant Twist, an outdoor pool overlooking the Hollywood sign, a world-class fitness center, catering by Wolfgang Puck and the new Spa Luce. 1755 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood 90028; 323.856.1200; www.renaissancehollywood.com. Media contact: Susan Hartzler, Alpha Dog PR, 818.998.6299, susan@alphadogpr.com.
Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel — This historic property has gone through a major transformation. The Spare Room, which opened in January 2011, presents itself as a modern day gaming parlor and cocktail lounge located on the hotel’s mezzanine level. This unique spot features two vintage bowling lanes, custom and eclectic furnishings, and unique surfaces and textures expressing a hand-crafted feel. Public Kitchen & Bar, which opened February 2011, replaced Dakota. This new restaurant provides a central dining destination for both hotel guests and the local community with straightforward cooking created by Domaine Restaurant’s Tim Goodell. In addition, the hotel is home to Beacher’s Madhouse, a revolutionary Vaudeville-inspired theater, which features weekly shows. The Hotel has also completely renovated the Cabana Rooms that surround the pool. The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, site of the first Academy Awards ceremony in 1929, features 300 guest rooms and suites. 7000 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood 90028; 323.466.7000; www.thompsonhotels.com. Media contact: Bob Gregson, 323.785.7250, bgregson@thompsonhotels.com.
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Hollywood Walk of Fame — Built in 2008, this next generation of new Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites is located near the Hollywood Walk of Fame and centrally located near the Hollywood Bowl and Universal Studios Hollywood. The 94-room hotel features a fitness center, an outdoor pool, a 1,500-square-foot meeting room, 24-hour business center and wireless data connection, with high-speed Internet access in all rooms and a complimentary hot breakfast and valet parking. In spring 2012, the hotel will premiere new luxury two level Loft Suites, featuring full balconies for guest entertaining or just enjoying that cool summer breeze, overlooking the Los Angeles and Hollywood skyline. The rooms will also include premium, 60in TV’s, sound, lighting, and personal attendant, in addition to a modern bathroom layout with towel warmers. 1921 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood, 90068, www.hollywoodholidayinnexpress.com Media Contact: Corey Bouche, 323.850.8151, email@hollywoodholidayinnexpress.com
Mondrian Los Angeles – The Mondrian Los Angeles is located in the heart of West Hollywood. The hotel completed a major $40 million renovation in September 2008. All 237 guest rooms, meeting rooms and public spaces were updated. Mondrian offers extensive, elegantly appointed meeting and banquet facilities, a full-service business center, Internet access, multi-service meeting spaces and executive boardrooms. State-of-the-art audio-visual playback, smart boards, electronic flip charts, portable computers, mobile phones and fax machines are available on request. 8440 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood 90069; 323.650.8999; www.mondrianhotel.com. Media Contact: Kristen Jordon-Wood, 323.848.6023, Kristen.jordon-wood@morganshotelgroup.com.
Sunset Marquis Hotel and Villas — The Sunset Marquis Hotel and Villas recently completed a $40 million expansion of its villas. Also included in the expansion are a new restaurant, a new gym, spa facilities and an addition to The Studio, a commercial-grade recording facility. The Studio completed renovation in early November 2007. The hotel has 102 guest rooms and 12 suites. 1200 Alta Loma Road, West Hollywood 90069; 310.657.1333; www.sunsetmarquishotel.com. Media contact: Stephanie Senter, 310.657.1333, Stephanie@sunsetmarquishotel.com.
Sunset Tower Hotel — Sunset Tower Hotel — A multimillion-dollar renovation of the Sunset Tower Hotel (formerly The Argyle and The Saint James Club) culminated recently in returning the property to its 1929-opening name. Additions include the new Tower Bar restaurant, the new 7,000-square-foot Salon & Spa, the new poolside Terrace restaurant and The Terrace Room. The hotel has 81 guest rooms and suites, including two penthouses and two townhouse apartments. 8358 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood 90069; 323.654.7100; www.sunsettowerhotel.com. Media Contac: Kelley Gattis, Sales Manager, 323.848.6660, kgattis@sunsettowerhotel.com.
Ramada Plaza Hotel -West Hollywood — The Ramada Plaza Hotel-West Hollywood recently completed renovation of all its 176 guest rooms, including 45 suites. The renovations included furniture changes, technical upgrades, installation of new 42-inch, HDTV flat-screen televisions and upgrades to room decor. There are also upgrades to the fitness room, the addition of a new lobby lounge and the new hotel restaurant, Primo Bistro. 8585 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood 90069; 310.652.6400; www.ramadaweho.com. Media contact: Bill Karpiak, 310.652.6400 info@ramadaweho.com.
Airtel Plaza Hotel — This three-star independent hotel is located at the historic Van Nuys Airport in the center of the San Fernando Valley, as made famous in the last scene of the movie “Casablanca” starring Humphrey Bogart. The hotel has currently added a collection of new rooms called “Preferred Rooms and Suites” featuring 32” HD Flat Screen TV, Ihome Docking Station, new bedding, furniture, refrigerator and tiled walk-in showers. These oversized rooms are designed to cater to the needs and comfort of the Corporate Traveler. The Airtel Plaza Hotel offers over 22,000 square feet of conference space , including the newly renovated Gulfstream Ballroom, a great venue with its attached Midway Garden, popular for events where guests can flow from an outdoor cocktail party directly to the indoor ballroom. Complimentary high speed internet access is available in all guest rooms, meeting rooms and public areas. The entire lobby area will be going under renovation in the spring of 2012, designed to be a multi-use space where guests can eat, drink, work and socialize. 7277 Valjean Ave., Van Nuys 91406; 818.997.7676; www.AirtelPlaza.com. Media Contact: Kim Cartaino, 818.997.7676, kimcartaino@airtelplaza.com
Beverly Garland Holiday Inn —The Beverly Garland Holiday Inn completed a $2 million upgrade to its meeting and event facilities, pool and lobby area. Renovation of the grand ballroom was completed in January 2010. Three other meeting rooms — the Cabrillo, Mission and Father Serra — were completed in spring 2010. Guests looking for a bite to eat will delight in the newly redesigned on-site restaurant—Tula’s, open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Tula’s offers a wide array of menu items, featuring Mediterranean cuisine with a Californian influence. The Beverly Garland’s expansive outdoor pool and surrounding courtyard was also recently restyled with contemporary new lounge furniture, a whirlpool, poolside fireplace and seasonal poolside bar, Splash. The hotel boasts more than 14,000 square feet of outdoor and indoor meeting space, including the 5,100 square foot Grand Ballroom which just debuted its glamorous new look in September 2011. 222 Vineland Ave., North Hollywood 91602; 818.980.8000; www.beverlygarland.com. Media contact: Nancy Uber, NÜ PR, 415.672.2950, nancy@nupr.com.
Hilton Garden Inn Valencia @ Six Flags — Close to Six Flags Magic Mountain, the Hilton Garden Inn recently completed a $2 million renovation of all its guest rooms, public areas and 2,500 square feet of meeting space. The hotel has 152 guest rooms and suites. 27710 The Old Road, Valencia 91355; 661.254.8800; www.hiltongardeninn.hilton.com. Media contact: Shawn Nichols, 661.254.8800, shawn.nichols@hilton.com.
Hilton Los Angeles North/Glendale & Executive Meeting Center — In December 2008 all 351 guest rooms and suites of this property were completely renovated. Earlier, in 2007, renovations to the Grand Ballroom and the second, smaller ballroom were completed. 100 W. Glenoaks Blvd., Glendale 91202; 818.956.5466; www.hilton.com. Media contact: Jacque Gunn, 818.551.4021, Jacque.gunn@hilton.com.
Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City — In 2007, the Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City completed a multimillion-dollar renovation. This renovation was used to revamp the hotel’s 60,000 square feet of flexible indoor/outdoor meeting and event space to offer Wi-Fi, video conferencing and webcasting through an on-site audio visual team. Additional renovations were made to the award-winning Café Sierra, famous for its renowned weekend buffets, the Lobby Lounge and the new Starbucks Coffee Corner, completed in 2008. Public areas, including the fitness center, spa, pool and cabanas, were also polished in the process. The hotel offers 482 guest rooms, including nine executive suites. 555 Universal Hollywood Drive, Universal City 91608; 818.506.2500; www.hiltonuniversal.com . Media contact: Zarina Zertuche, 818.509.2097, zzertuche@hiltonuniversal.com.
Sheraton Universal Hotel — This iconic Hollywood hotel, known as the “Hotel of the Stars,” completed a more than $25 million renovation, finishing in time to celebrate the hotel's 40th anniversary in 2009. The hotel’s décor salutes Hollywood’s heyday and features elements in the Hollywood Regency style inspired by the 1920s through the 1940s. The property has 451 guest rooms, including 31 suites (two presidential, three VIP, one Shrek-themed and 19 executive suites). The hotel has been going through a $5 million renovation of the pool and grand ballroom which is scheduled to be complete April 2012. 333 Universal Hollywood Drive, Universal City 91608; 818.980.1212; http://www.sheratonuniversal.com/. Media Contact: Richard Reeves, 818.509.2757, rreeves@sheratonuniversal.com
Sportsmen’s Lodge Hotel — The Event Center at Sportsmen’s Lodge, formerly known as the Sportsmen’s Lodge Restaurant and Banquet Center, has re-opened after a complete renovation. The Event Center has 30,000 square feet of meeting space, in addition to two outdoor event locations. In 2008, the hotel went through a $1 million refurbishment, which included renovation of the hotel’s lobby, Pub Bar and Patio Café, which serves breakfast and lunch. Guest rooms were upgraded with high-speed wireless Internet access, new beds and bedding and other soft goods. The Sportsmen’s Lodge Hotel, which is now being managed by Broughton Hospitality, has 190 guest rooms, including 11 studio suites and the one-bedroom Georgian Suite. The hotel is located on the same grounds as the Event Center at Sportsmen’s Lodge. 12825 Ventura Blvd., Studio City 91604; 818.769.4700; http://www.slhotel.com/. Media contact: Russell Edmond, 818.255.9804; Redmond@slhotel.com
Warner Center Marriott — Warner Center Marriott, located in the heart of West San Fernando Valley in Woodland Hills, has completed an enhancement of its outdoor pool and terrace area, now named the Urban Oasis area, and has expanded its Health Club, which now features all-new equipment. The hotel also replaced the carpet in the ballroom and ballroom foyer in December 2010. These latest upgrades follow an extensive $6 million renovation of the hotel’s 474 guest rooms, suites and guest room corridors, which was completed in August 2008. The hotel also features 25,000 square feet of recently enhanced meeting and event space. 21850 Oxnard St., Woodland Hills 91367; 818.887.4800; http://www.warnercentermarriott.com/. Media contact: Nellie Freeborn, 818.227.6111, nfreeborn@warnercentermarriott.com.
Courtyard by Marriott Century City/Beverly Hills — This hotel recently completed a total renovation of all public areas, including the lobby, bar, restaurant and 526-square-foot boardroom. The hotel has 132 guest rooms and three suites. 10320 W. Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles 90064; 310.556.2777; www.marriott.com/property/propertypage/laxce. Media contact: Paul Verduin, 310.556.3593, pverduin@pacificahost.com.
Élan Hotel — The 49-room boutique Élan Hotel has completed a $1.2 million renovation. The lobby area and guest rooms have all gone through a slight transformation with color schemes and upgraded amenities. 8435 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles 90048; 323.658.6663; www.elanhotel.com. Media Contact: Bette Bloom, senior sales manager, 323.658.5300, BBloom@ElanHotel.com.
Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills — The Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills has recently completed a $33 million renovation, including all 285 guest rooms and suites, The Ballroom, Windows Lounge, Cabana Restaurant and pool with new private cabanas. Culina, Modern Italian, the new independent restaurant managed by Four Seasons, also has opened. Adjacent to the Lounge, the patio has been expanded and includes additional seating for up to 25 persons with two additional wrought iron cabanas. The design of the guest rooms encompasses the timeless glamour of 1940s Hollywood, with elegantly mirrored wall paneling and white-gold contemporized chinoiserie headboards. All bathrooms have been updated with glass enclosures for the shower/bathtub areas, new flat-screen TVs and new contemporary fixtures and vanities. 300 S. Doheny Drive, Los Angeles 90048; 310.332.3442; www.fourseasons.com/losangeles. Media Contact: Kim Kessler, 310.786.2212, kim.kessler@fourseasons.com.
Hotel Angeleno — Hotel Angeleno, a Joie de Vivre property, is conveniently and centrally located in Los Angeles. Perfectly blending timeless, casual luxury, this iconic circular property sits at the crossroads of Beverly Hills, Santa Monica and UCLA and features 208 stylish and modern guest rooms. WEST, a penthouse-level Cal-Italian restaurant and lounge offers Sunday brunch, breakfast, lunch, and dinner accompanied by panoramic views of the city and live jazz music. The property also features more than 3,500 square feet of meeting space with natural light and spectacular views, a heated outdoor pool with fireplace, complimentary valet parking, shuttle service, wifi, and wine hour, along with a modern fitness and business center. 170 N. Church Lane, Los Angeles 90049; 310.476.6411; www.hotelangeleno.com. Media Contact: Jessica Ayers, 310.476.6411, jayers@jdvhotels.com.
Hyatt Regency Century Plaza Los Angeles — The Los Angeles Ballroom at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza Hotel Los Angeles is currently undergoing a $1.3 million renovation. A renovation of one of the largest ballrooms in Los Angeles, was completed in January 2012. It features new carpet, paint and wall coverings throughout the California Level, which includes the renowned 25,000 square foot Los Angeles Ballroom, the 23,000 square foot California Showroom exhibition space and a series of break out rooms totaling 7,500 square feet of event and meeting space. Furthermore, a complete overhaul of the hotels’ original 1966 chandeliers will increase lighting and provide better visibility throughout the space. In 2010, the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza completed a more than $1 million upgrade to the hotel’s Plaza Level. The hotel also features its “backyard oasis,” with its ever popular infinity-edged pool, fashionable furnishings, sun beds, pool hut and seasonal activities supervisor. The hotel has 726 guest rooms and 39 suites. 2025 Avenue of the Stars, Los Angeles 90067; 310.228.1234; www.centuryplazahyatt.com. Media Contact: Adrienne De Vore, 310.551.3299; Adrienne.devore@hyatt.com
Radisson Hotel Los Angeles Westside — The Radisson Hotel Los Angeles Westside has completed a $2 million renovation that creates a new dining and jazz experience and enhances the lobby to generate more guest interaction. The new restaurant, Share, is a new-concept bistro that specializes in seasonal, small-plate dishes to create a warm, relaxing ambiance for guests who wish to sample different flavors from diverse culinary options. The hotel has 368 contemporary guest rooms and suites offering Radisson's exclusive Sleep Number® bed, complimentary high-speed Internet access and spectacular views. In addition, the hotel has more than 20,000 square feet of flexible meeting and banquet space, with a capacity of up to 600 people, and offering high-speed, wireless Internet access, video conferencing and on-site sales and catering options. 6161 W. Centinela Ave., Culver City 90230, 310.649.1776; www.radissonla.com. Media Contact: Greg Milligan, 310.348.4511, gmilligan@radissonlawestside.com.
Sofitel Los Angeles — Located at the intersection of West Hollywood and Beverly Hills, Sofitel Los Angeles is an entirely transformed property. Guests can experience modern American cuisine and nightlife on the premises of celebrity chef Kerry Simon’s Simon LA restaurant and Rande Gerbers’ Stone Rose Lounge. All guest rooms feature MyBed™, high-speed and Wi-Fi Internet, 32-inch plasma televisions, laptop connections and alarm clocks with MP3 player connections. Suites feature walk-in closets and large soaking tubs with televisions. The hotel also has a full-service, luxury spa — called LeSpa at Sofitel (a first by Sofitel in the United States) — with eight treatment rooms in 5,000 square feet of space. The hotel has 295 guest rooms and suites. 8555 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles 90048; 310.278.5444; www.sofitellosangeles.com. Media contact: Lauren Myers, 310.228.2640, Lauren.myers@sofitel.com.
Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel — This legendary hotel has completed a $40 million enhancement with a new style that complements the traditional setting. Wolfgang Puck’s CUT and sidebar, designed by Richard Meier, offer guests a contemporary steakhouse and lounge with a stylish flair. A new 8,000-square-foot spa has also debuted, along with significant enhancements to the pool and fitness facilities. At the end of January, the hotel completed a $4 million renovation of two of its deluxe suites, the Presidential and the Penthouse. In addition, The Blvd (restaurant and lounge) was renovated in 2005. The hotel has 395 guest rooms and suites. 9500 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills 90212; 310.275.5200; www.fourseasons.com. Media contact: Jennifer Cooke, 310.385.3917, jennifer.cooke@fourseasons.com.
Custom Hotel — Joie de Vivre Hotels, the West Coast-based company known for its fun, whimsical boutique properties, continues to grow its Southern California inventory with the addition of the newly refreshed Custom Hotel, the only lifestyle boutique hotel situated near LAX and minutes from West LA’s beach communities, as well as Loyola Marymount University and Otis School of Design. Officially re-launching mid-September with a new attitude, updated amenities, a revamped restaurant and bar, and an aesthetic that pays homage to the mod ‘60s when air travel was at a glamorous height, Custom Hotel is an ideal destination for business or leisure guests in town for an extended stay or an extended layover. 8639 Lincoln Blvd., Los Angeles 90045; 310.645.0400; www.customhotel.com. Media Contact: Emma Haber, 917.892.4700, emma@blinklosangeles.com
Four Points Sheraton LAX — The Four Points Sheraton LAX has recently opened its new restaurant, Comfort. Comfort’s California casual design, with rich woods, sleek steel and textured fabrics, has a private dining room for parties of 10 to 30 guests. The Four Points Sheraton LAX also recently renovated guest rooms in its center wing, the pool, meeting space and atrium lobby. The fitness center also increased in size and now features the latest in high-tech equipment. The lounge, which recently completed a major transformation, doubled in size and now includes a sports bar, along with a room that can be used for small groups. A coffee bar has been added, serving Seattle’s Best Coffee. The hotel also completed a renovation of its guest rooms in the west tower. Renovations to guest rooms in the east tower will begin in December 2011 to be completed by the end of the first quarter in 2012. The hotel has 570 guest rooms and 20 suites. 9750 Airport Blvd., Los Angeles 90045; 310.645.4600; www.fourtpointslax.com. Media Contact: Catherine H. Gill, 310.649.7059, catherine.gill@fourpointslax.com.
Holiday Inn Express at LAX — The new Holiday Inn Express at Los Angeles International Airport re-opened in August 2009 after being completely renovated. The property now features more than160 fresh and inviting suites and guest rooms, with its mini suites featuring Jacuzzi tubs. Rooms include either single or double beds; wheelchair-accessible and handicapped-equipped rooms are available on a limited basis. The property also has a 450-square-foot meeting room, which features free high-speed Internet access and audio-visual support. 8620 Airport Blvd., Los Angeles 90045; 310.645.7700; www.hiexpress.com. Media Contact: Audrey Ruiz, 310.645.7700, Audrey.ruiz@brightonmgt.com.
Holiday Inn LAX — The Holiday Inn LAX completed a $10 million renovation in August 2009. The renovation included a complete makeover of the hotel’s 405 guest rooms, meeting space, lobby, fitness center and Landings Restaurant. Along with new windows, décor, furniture, linens and soft goods, guest rooms now offer complimentary high-speed wireless Internet. In addition, 23 rooms have been built to current ADA standards of accessibility featuring oversized and specialized spaces and amenities. Nine of these rooms are specifically for the hearing-impaired. The hotel has five meeting rooms with 4,100 square feet of total meeting and banquet space, accommodating up to 400 persons. 9901 La Cienega Blvd., Los Angeles 90045; 310.649.5151; www.hilax.com. Media Contact: Steve Hostetter, general manager, 310.649.5151, ext. 1170, steveh@hilax.com.
Sheraton Gateway Hotel Los Angeles — Following a $20 million renovation, the Sheraton Gateway Hotel is now a contemporary, luxury, boutique-style property. Upgrades include 37-inch flat-screen plasma televisions in the hotel’s guest rooms and 42-inch, flat-screen plasmas in the suites, pool terrace, public areas (including the addition of wireless Internet service) and 50,000 square feet of meeting space. The addition of the hotel’s newly designed 11,400-square-foot ballroom has been fittingly recreated with new interiors and equipment. A full-service Starbucks café also was added. The Sheraton has 802 guest rooms, including 103 suites and 50 Club Level rooms. 6101 W. Century Blvd., Los Angeles 90045; 310.642.1111; www.sheratonlosangeles.com. Media contact: Deborah Lusby, 310.642.4827, deborah.lusby@sheratonlosangeles.com.
Westin Los Angeles Airport — The Westin Los Angeles Airport Hotel completed the final phase of renovating its 740 guest rooms in January 2010. Each of the spacious rooms now features a 37-inch flat-panel HD TV, the Westin Heavenly Bath® and the signature 10-layer Westin Heavenly Bed®, which celebrated its 10-year anniversary in 2009. In April 2010, the hotel opened a new restaurant, The Daily Grill. In addition, the hotel recently completed an $11 million renovation of its 45,000 square feet of meeting space. 5400 W. Century Blvd., Los Angeles 90045; 310.216.5858; www.starwood.com/westin. Media contact: Stephanie Lapsley, 310.417.4503, Stephanie.lapsley@westin.com.
Wingate by Wyndham Los Angeles International Airport – The Wingate by Wyndham Los Angeles International Airport, a former Hampton Inn, opened its doors in March 2011. The 148-room property, which recently finished a complete renovation, is located two miles east of LAX. Like all Wingate by Wyndham hotels, the Wingate Los Angeles International Airport’s oversized guest rooms offer ample living and working space with separate, well-lit work areas; complimentary high-speed wired and wireless Internet access; flat-screen televisions; in-room coffee makers; and safes. A complimentary, full breakfast features a variety of hot and cold items daily. Hotel facilities include a fitness center; meeting facilities; 24-hour business center with free computer access, copies, printing and faxes; complimentary parking; and courtesy shuttle service to and from Los Angeles International Airport. 10300 La Cienega Blvd., Inglewood, 90304; 310.846.3200; www.wingatehotels.com. Media Contact: Kathryn Zambito, Public Relations Manager, 973.753.6590 kathryn.zambito@wyn.com. Doubletree Hotel San Pedro — Set between the Cabrillo Marina and Cabrillo Beach, the Marina Hotel is now the Doubletree Hotel San Pedro. An $8.5 million renovation was completed in 2007. All the guest rooms underwent a redesign with new bedding, carpeting, drapes, bathrooms and artwork, among other improvements. The meeting space, restaurant, lounge, fitness center, business center, gift shop and pool area also were upgraded. Wireless high-speed Internet access was installed in the meeting space, lobby, lounge and guest rooms. The hotel has 226 guest rooms and suites. 2800 Via Cabrillo Marina, San Pedro 90731; 310.514.3344; www.sanpedro.doubletree.com. Media contact: Sandra Sooklal, 310.519.2786, Sandra.sooklal@hilton.com.
Crowne Plaza Los Angeles Harbor Hotel — The Crowne Plaza Los Angeles Harbor Hotel completed a remodel that includes all-new furnishings and bath upgrades with granite finishes. The hotel also renovated all the banquet and meeting spaces and restaurant and added a new and unique modern bar, Blu Bar & Lounge, where guests can enjoy the bar’s signature “Blutini.” The hotel has 244 guest rooms, including 56 suites. 601 S. Palos Verdes St., San Pedro 90731; 310.519.8200; www.crowneplaza.com/laharbor. Media contact: Vicki Garcia, 310.521-8037, Vicki.garcia@cplaharborhotel.com.
Doubletree Suites by Hilton Santa Monica – This all-suite property recently went through a renovation and now includes new 42- inch flat screen TV’s in each suite, new leather ottoman’s, new dressers featuring marble countertops, and new pull out sofa beds. The property is currently in the process of converting more of its king suites to two queen size beds, which will total 55. The Doubletree Suites by Hilton Santa Monica has over 10,000 square feet of flexible meeting space located on the lobby level. The property is located three blocks from the beach, Santa Monica Pier, and one block from the new open air Santa Monica Place Mall, featuring shopping and dining establishments. 1707 Fourth Street, Santa Monica, 90401; 310.395.3332; www.santamonicasuites.doubletree.com. Media Contact: Tamara M. McLaughlin, 310.899.1370, tamara.mclaughlin@hilton.com.
The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey — The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey has undergone a multimillion-dollar renovation, which includes a guest room makeover completed in the summer of 2006. The room design changed from traditional European to contemporary Californian with a nautical flair. In 2007, the hotel launched The Spa, featuring eight treatment rooms using signature product lines from Murad, Payot and Mama Mio. The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey also recently completed its 17,000 square feet of meeting space. Renovations and offerings include innovative décor, advanced technology, inventive culinary presentations and outside catering options, including Persian and kosher. The property has 304 guest rooms and suites. 4375 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 90292; 310.823.1700; www.ritzcarlton.com/hotels/marina_del_rey. Media contact: Michael Mettler, 310.574.4325, Michael.mettler@ritzcarlton.com
Marina del Rey Marriott — A major redesign of public areas and 18,000 square feet of meeting space was completed in May 2007. Among the areas renovated were Stones restaurant, the 6,100-square-foot California Ballroom and the pool deck. The transformation of the lobby and lobby bar, named Glow, and an adjacent courtyard has created a more contemporary, modern lifestyle-oriented environment. Designed to appeal to the senses, Glow is an open-air lounge featuring fire pits, water treatments, radiating amber-hued lamps and a black-tented gazebo. Both day and night, Glow is open to guests and the public seven days a week. The hotel has 395 guest rooms and suites. 4100 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey 90292; 310.301.3000; www.marriott.com/laxmb. Media contact: Jennifer Gross, Evolutionary Media Group, 323.658.8700, Jennifer@emgpr.com.
Four Points by Sheraton Los Angeles Westside — This property was completely overhauled w¬¬ith changes to the carpeting, wall coverings, furniture, art and amenities. The guest rooms, meeting rooms, banquet space, library, restaurant and outside areas were all part of this renovation. The fitness room received all-new fitness equipment, and four new suites were created, fully outfitted with plasma televisions and refrigerators. The Four Points by Sheraton Los Angeles Westside has 195 guest rooms and suites. 5990 Green Valley Circle, Culver City 90230; 310.641.7740; www.starwoodhotels.com/fourpoints. Media contact: Melissa Williams, 310.981.8006, mdwilliams@hotelpros.biz.
Crowne Plaza Redondo Beach and Marina Hotel — Located just seven miles south of Los Angeles International Airport, the Crowne Plaza Redondo Beach and Marina Hotel has just completed a renovation of its lobby and recreation deck. In addition, the hotel’s 346 guest rooms have new carpeting and ergonomic desk chairs, and the lobby features new carpet and furniture. The recreation deck, where the hotel’s pool, hot tub, tennis court and Harbor Terrace are located, has new decking and outdoor furniture. 300 N. Harbor Drive, Redondo Beach 90277; 310.318.8888; www.crowneplaza.com/redondobeach. Media Contact: Deborah Shepard, 310.318.7758, deborah.shepard@ihg.com.
Belamar Hotel —The Belamar Hotel has unveiled a $2.2 million renovation, focusing on the lobby, a new restaurant and state-of-the-art meeting facilities for corporate groups of all sizes. New lobby accents include a refurbished front desk and a newly designed natural-stone area surrounding the lobby’s signature fireplace. The hotel’s new second-floor restaurant, Second Story, features contemporary, healthy twists on all-American classics from chef Vania Almeida. Five brand-new, one-of-a-kind meeting rooms, flexible for groups up to 100 people, have been created, giving the Belamar 7,095 square feet of meeting space. The hotel has 127 guest rooms. 3501 Sepulveda Blvd., Manhattan Beach 90266; 310.750.0300; www.belamarhotel.com. Media Contact: Jeff Rubenstein, 415.945.5037, jrubenstein@larkspurhotels.com.
Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel — The Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel recently renovated its 7,000-square-foot Ocean Spa and Fitness Club, making it more eco-friendly. The spa, which now includes Ecoresin panels, Armstrong sustainable ceiling tiles, reclaimed-wood furniture pieces and Mondo recycled rubber floors, offers four treatment rooms featuring the latest in spa technology with organic treatments. Spa services include Moor mud wraps, buff body treatments, beauty flash facials and the signature “Beachcomber” massage. Additional amenities include spa manicures and pedicures, full-service hair salon, expansive retail boutique, comfortable men’s and women’s lounges with dry saunas and eucalyptus steam rooms, personalized fitness programs, nutritional coaching and educational seminars. The hotel has 325 guest rooms and 17 suites. 1700 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica 90401; 310.458.6700; www.loewshotels.com. Media Contact: Anne Stephany, 619.424.4416, astephany@loewshotels.com.
Queen Mary Hotel — Once one of the largest passenger liners afloat, the Queen Mary is permanently docked in Long Beach Harbor serving as a glamorous hotel that harkens back to the days of leisurely crossing the Atlantic. The hotel's 314 original staterooms and suites were all refurbished in 2010 with new bedding, soft goods and refreshed décor. Each cabin is uniquely appointed, and embellishments vary to include rich wood paneling, art deco built-ins, original artwork and portholes for outside cabins. The hotel offers seven waterfront restaurants and lounges, 12 daily tours, more than a dozen shops, a fitness center, the Queen Mary Spa, a business center and 32-inch flat-screen televisions. The 150-seat wedding chapel was also renovated in spring 2010, while retaining its traditional sense of romance and nostalgia. Banquet rooms, salons and ballrooms of various sizes accommodate meetings, dinners and festivals with up to several thousand guests. 1126 Queen's Highway, Long Beach 90802; 877.342.0738; www.queenmary.com. Media contact: Erika Testo, marketing manager, 562.499.1619; erika.testo@queenmary.com Pacific Palms Resort — The Pacific Palms Resort has completed a $60 million renovation. Located on 650 acres, the property has 292 guest rooms, each with balcony, a variety of food and beverage options, including fireside dining and cocktail seating on the patio overlooking Celebration Lake, and a new spa and fitness center. Pacific Palms has more than 45,000 square feet of function space, including a 12,000-square-foot ballroom, 28 meeting and breakout rooms, a business center and technology café. The newly opened 11,000-square-foot lifestyle Spa at Pacific Palms features a Zen-inspired environment and a wide-ranging menu including traditional, cutting-edge and Asian-inspired offerings. The resort is located in Industry Hills, convenient to Downtown Los Angeles and four major freeways. One Industry Hills Parkway, Industry Hills 91744, 626.810.4455; www.pacificpalmsresort.com. Media Contact: Cynthia Ordyke, 626.854.2313, cordyke@pacificpalmsresort.com.
Media Contacts:
Carol Martinez
Vice President, Communications
phn: 213/236-2357, fax 213/425-1457
cmartinez@lainc.us
Beth Brett
Director, Communications
phn: 213/236-2397, fax 213/452-1407
bbrett@lainc.us
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