Palihouse Hotel, Santa Monica

It\’s no secret that Santa Monica, California is one of my favourite cities in the world. And although I might move away from time to time for work, I always return to it, and I always return to one area in particular – West of Wilshire and just blocks off Ocean.

One of my homes in Santa Monica was literally behind what used to be The Embassy Hotel. Built in 1927, it became a designed Santa Monica Historical Landmark property in 2001. It was charming then and I often recommended it to people when they wanted to stay in-town.

It wasn\’t until recently that I was able to return and stay and what is now the Palihouse Santa Monica. I wanted to stay in it because of the location and from the web site, the decor had caught my attention. But remembering all the Moorish-influenced architecture that made the hotel feel like a by-gone era of Los Angeles beach history, I was worried – would the hotel have lost it\’s charm for modern-day sensibilities?

As soon as I walked through the out door gates, through the front courtyard, I realised the answer was no. The charm was there just completely updated and meticulously cared for. What used to be a relatively empty courtyard had lovely outdoor seating area for coffee or computing as well as perfect beach cruisers to see Santa Monica the right way – on bike!

The lobby had been re-done to bring out all the tile-work, the large windows and also to make what used to be a cold area feel very cosy with dark walls, large fireplace, small bar and big, green velvet banquet seating.

• Palihouse Santa Monica on Hygge House

• Palihouse Santa Monica on Hygge House

My room, on the second floor, was bigger than most Santa Monica flats – and far more charming. I\’m sucker for wallpaper and with four different prints within the room I was in heaven. A small and functional kitchen was off the bedroom, the large floor to ceiling windows opened up fully to the back (and quiet) courtyard below. A huge walk in closet with a separate vanity area made me feel like I was living in 1940\’s Hollywood glamour. The room was bright and comfortable, with a great desk, large couch and a bed that was perfection with it\’s mattress and duvet.

Staying here is definitely a one of a kind experience because of its decor and location. It\’s perfect stop for a coffee in the morning outside or a cocktail at night in the lobby. The location cannot be beat for walking around all the shops or to the beach. I was really inspired by how hygge the room was and felt a little empowered to mix more prints in my home. And being here felt like home which is the totally what they\’re going for. The downsides? It\’s expensive – worth it if you like this kind of look + location and want a flat type experience. Not worth it if a hotel room is just a room, you want lots of quiet, services or amenities.

I\’d definitely try to look for a deal – it can be overpriced. And I\’d recommend non-ground level floors and those overlooking either the alley or the non-street side. But I loved my stay here and recommend it. If only for the design inspiration…