Hotel Per La: A Modern Oasis in Los Angeles

Perched at the junction of 7th and Olive Street in downtown Los Angeles, the recently opened Hotel Per La is not just a place to stay; it’s a meticulously curated experience, a harmonious blend of historical elegance and modern comforts. This twelve-story beacon of hospitality showcases 241 guest rooms, a ground-floor restaurant, and the alluring rooftop Bar Clara, where guests sip cocktails as they gaze out over the iconic LA skyline. The hotel is a revival of a historic structure originally built as the Bank of Italy, and it preserves much of the Neoclassical architecture that defined its storied past.

Design Philosophy: Reviving Elegance

Hotel Per La emanates a design philosophy deeply rooted in its history. The developers, HN Capital Partners and Sage Hospitality Group, have artfully merged the classic and contemporary. Daniel Montes, the hotel’s director of rooms, explains this interplay: “Our design celebrates a timeless Italian elegance, capturing the spirit of Los Angeles while honoring the building’s rich history.”

Preservation Meets Innovation

Montes further elaborates on how the hotel’s ambiance has been crafted. “The Doric columns and ornate ceilings have been lovingly preserved, yet we’ve introduced vibrant colors and playful elements throughout the space, ensuring our guests feel a unique warmth.” The structure features:

• Over 4,000 curated art pieces, blending vintage and modern influences, including many sourced from Italy and local California artists.
• Elegant marble floors that convey both luxury and history, connecting guests to the building’s origins.
• A rooftop bar, Bar Clara, that channels the botanical richness of its surroundings into its menu, offering refreshing cocktails and Mediterranean-inspired bites.

A Room with a View: The Salon Rooms

Among the hotel’s most sought-after accommodations are its Salon Rooms, attracting guests for their intimate yet lavish design. Montes notes, “One of the standout features is the stunning bathtub situated right in the bedroom, allowing guests to unwind in style.” Priced starting at $199 per night, these rooms appeal to both romantic couples and solo travelers seeking a sanctuary. Montes personally champions the Claire Suites, stating, “They provide a private oasis complete with generous spaces for relaxation.”

Gastronomic Delights: Ristorante Per L’Ora

Dining at Hotel Per La is not merely an incidental offering; it’s a delightful journey through Italian cuisine. Ristorante Per L’Ora, located on the lobby level, prides itself on its easy-going atmosphere and a menu filled with light bites. Montes describes it as “a cozy yet sophisticated space that invites guests to savor every moment.” The integration of culinary artistry reflects a growing trend toward immersive dining experiences, a sentiment echoed by culinary expert Luca Ferraro, who asserts, “The best dining spaces should feel as much like a gathering place as they do a restaurant.”

A Glimpse into History

The hotel’s original features play a critical role in its identity as an icon. The original bank vault, a relic from the building’s days as the Bank of Italy, has been creatively repurposed to house the restrooms in the lobby’s basement. Montes notes its importance: “This serves as a tangible reminder of our past, showcasing how history can be integrated into contemporary design.” The juxtaposition of old and new story arcs is not only a design choice but a narrative choice, reflecting Los Angeles itself—a city in constant reinvention.

The Art of Living Well

Guests at Hotel Per La are treated to more than just luxurious amenities; they experience an atmosphere imbued with cultural significance. The hotel serves as a testament to the architectural evolution of Los Angeles, standing as a canvas for artistic expression and hospitality.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Hospitality

In the rapidly changing landscape of urban hospitality, hotels like Per La are redefining what it means to be a destination. Montes pointedly remarks, “As we continue to evolve, our commitment to creating memorable experiences will remain at the forefront.” A recent study conducted by the American Institute of Hospitality revealed that over 60% of travelers now prioritize unique experiences over standardized offerings, underscoring the necessity for hotels to adapt to dynamic consumer expectations.

As the sun sets over the skyline of Los Angeles, casting a golden hue over the hotel’s façade, it becomes increasingly clear: Hotel Per La is more than a luxury accommodation. It is a narrative interwoven with the history of its locale, aesthetic elegance, and culinary exploration, all thriving within an emblem of revival that mirrors the city’s own journey. As guests unwind by the rooftop pool with a cocktail in hand, they are not simply relaxing; they are a part of a story that celebrates the past while embracing a vibrant future.