Regent Santa Monica

Hospitality

Jan 20

Written By Eun Jin Kang

CLIENT
Strategic Hotels and Resorts

LOCATION
Santa Monica, CA

COMPLETION
October 2024

SCOPE
Facade, Lobby, Guest Rooms and Suites, Spa, Event Spaces

SERVICES
Master Planning, Design Development, Construction Documents, Construction Administration, Permits, etc.

PROJECT TYPE
Brand Conversion; Renovation

HOSPITALITY

Through bold, structural interventions and technical innovation, the 1987 landmark property has been fully reimagined for the 21st century, marking the Regent brand’s return to Southern California and its first flagship in the Americas.

Working within the constraints of a post-tensioned concrete building on a sloped coastal site, we reshaped the property from the inside out: removing and adding floors, creating expansive new volumes, converting all rooms into two-bay suites, and transforming the central atrium into a dramatic, light-filled focal point.

A Study in Light and Scale

Situated right on the Santa Monica coastline with seemingly limitless views across the Pacific Ocean, the resort reflects both the strength and serenity of its unique location, creating a sense of calm and spaciousness.

To create these airy, generous volumes, we embarked on major structural modifications to completely reconfigure the existing footprint. From removing and adding floors to generate new spatial relationships, to reinforcing and altering load paths to support new program areas, the Regent Santa Monica was not so much a renovation as a wholesale transformation.

Public Spaces /
Atrium Lobby

Grand New Heights

Stepping into the new Regent Santa Monica imbues guests with a sense of expansive possibility and laid back grandeur. The soaring 4-story atrium draws the eye upward, while the sumptuous curvilinear seating invites you to lounge and stay awhile.

Interior columns and balconies clad in imported stone and handmade Pompeii mosaic echo the raw natural beauty of the Pacific Ocean
An architectural focal point emphasizing sense of grandeur
Inlaid teak, rich leathers, and metal accents create a destination to linger and gather

Guerlain
Wellness Spa

Wellness, Refined

The Guerlain Wellness Spa is the epitome of luxury indulgence. Inspired by classic Parisian elegance and coastal Californian sophistication, the Spa spans 10,000sf, 12 treatment rooms, sauna, steam room, plunge pool, and multiple relaxation lounges, including the private Champagne lounge "Le Clos." The space was conceived to feel both open and grounded, seamlessly integrating sensory ritual with modern fitness and wellness practices to promote restoration and renewal.

Food & Beverage
(Orla By Michael Mina)

A Culinary Voyage

Orla, renowned chef Michael Mina's latest restaurant, is a luminous Mediterranean escape that fuses Greek and Egyptian heritage with elegant nautical touchpoints. Yacht-plank flooring anchors the expansive dining room with a stunning octopus mosaic feature, juxtaposed with a hand-painted octopus ceiling mural. Sculptural lighting and brass accents frame panoramic ocean views, while intimate private dining rooms whisk guests away on a deep sea voyage.