The latest addition to the Proper Hospitality portfolio, Downtown L.A Proper has opened its doors to the reimagined landmark building with interiors by designer Kelly Wearstler, blending vintage elements from the property’s historic roots with modern influences to create a hub for local creatives. We stepped inside to have a look…
Originally constructed by iconic Los Angeles architects Curlett & Beelman in the 1920s, the property was initially a private club whose members included luminaries such as Cecil B. DeMille, and was subsequently a YWCA in the 1960’s. Fast forward to the 21st Century, and LA-based real estate developer The Kor Group, in partnership with Frank Stork and Channing Henry, have worked closely with architect partner Omgivning and designer Kelly Wearstler with Proper Hotels, to reimagine that storied history with a modern lens, drawing inspiration from Downtown L.A. to layer vestiges from the 1920s with elements of Spanish, Portuguese, Mexican and Moroccan design.
Image credit: Proper Hotels / The Ingalls
In addition to vintage furniture and rugs, Wearstler employs more than 100 different kinds of hand-painted and custom tiles throughout the property, while site specific murals and installations by local talents such as artists Abel Macias and Ben Medansky, ceramicist Morgan Peck, and Judson Studios stained glass bring further dimension to the public spaces.
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Deeply residential in feel, each of the rooms and suites is a canvas for curated pieces and specially designed furnishings with charcoal and mauve tones lending depth and warmth. Nodding to its former life as a YWCA, stand-out accommodations include the 1,430 square foot Proper Basketball Court Suite and 2,777 square foot Proper Pool Suite featuring a full-sized indoor swimming pool accented by a ceramic mural by local artist Ben Medansky.
Image credit: Proper Hotels / The Ingalls
Also positioning itself as a culinary destination, James Beard Award-winning chef Suzanne Goin and restaurateur Caroline Styne of The Lucques Group, oversee two (soon to be three) culinary experiences throughout the property. Lobby level restaurant & bar Caldo Verde, is a focal point within the hotel and neighbourhood, showcasing Goin and Styne’s nuanced and warm approach to hospitality. Open for breakfast and dinner, the restaurant draws inspiration from Portuguese and Spanish influences, while finding expression through the lens of Southern California. Boutique, esoteric wines from small producers hailing from Spain, Portugal and California, along with an extensive list of cocktails and non-alcoholic libations make up the property’s thoughtful beverage programme.
Image credit: Proper Hotels / The Ingalls
The dynamic bar programme is echoed across Cara Cara, the property’s rooftop restaurant and lounge offering sweeping and unobstructed city views. Goin’s all-day menu is similarly grounded in inspirations from sunny coasts around the world, and is crafted to complement Downtown L.A. Proper’s unrivalled rooftop and poolside experience. Later this winter, Proper Hospitality and Goin and Styne will introduce Dalia, an intimate ground level classic cocktail lounge and bar showcasing small-batch spirits in refined presentations.
“There is so much inspiration to draw from in each pocket of this historic building that is also reflective of DTLA’s evolution and modern-day awakening,” said Goin and Styne. “We look forward to serving this vibrant neighbourhood where locals and travellers converge, offering culinary experiences that tell the story of our personal histories in Los Angeles, as well as travels abroad.”
Image credit: Proper Hotels / The Ingalls
Underscoring Proper Hospitality’s commitment to creating distinct gathering places big and small for all occasions, Downtown L.A. Proper offers more than 14,000 square feet of spaces for meetings, weddings and special events with settings being home to diverse cultural and wellness programming including rooftop yoga and meditation. Guests will also enjoy access to complimentary Linus Bikes, and a 24/7 fitness centre featuring Peloton bikes, Tonal equipment and more.
Located within the South Park District adjacent to the Fashion District, the property is in close proximity to celebrated cultural venues such as L.A. Live, Walt Disney Concert Hall, The Music Centre, MOCA, and The Broad Museum. With its opening, Downtown L.A. Proper is set to be an epicentre of hospitality and cultural experiences within the community.
Main image credit: Proper Hotels / The Ingalls
