Urban Renewal in the Heart of the Vinyl District
The W Hollywood Hotel recently reopened after undergoing a comprehensive renovation carried out by the Rockwell Group. This urban renewal of the W Hollywood Hotel is located in the heart of Los Angeles’ “Vinyl District.” This neighbourhood is currently gaining increasing cultural and urban significance in the area.
Design Integration with Public Spaces
As part of the new renovations, an all-day café was added on the ground floor. This update stands out as part of a broader trend to activate public spaces within hotels. They are transformed into multi-purpose venues, not just places for accommodation. The café was designed to complement the overall hotel experience. It harmonises with the Living Room lounge, the bar, and the outdoor courtyard area connected to the main entrance. This urban renewal concept integrates the hotel design creatively with public spaces.
Interior Design: Employing Symbolism and Historical Context
The design of the new café was based on the vision of architect Alyka Nafisi-Moagar from Adean Studios. She blended artistic and historical inspiration drawn from the surrounding Hollywood atmosphere. This approach, which is a unique aspect of the W Hollywood Hotel’s urban renewal, aligns with contemporary architectural concepts. These concepts seek to create a spatial identity connected to the cultural context.
Balance Between Light and Material
During daylight hours, the physical elements in the space interact with natural light reflected from the balcony. This infusion of light adds vitality to the interior furnishings. Mustard yellow velvet chairs and classical details stand out. Custom-designed seating and bespoke spherical chandeliers contribute. All these elements create a sense of warmth and a carefully considered visual balance as part of the hotel’s urban renewal initiative.
Handcrafted Details and Visual Texture
Behind the marble coffee table, handcrafted Zia tiles stand out. They symbolise a return to traditional craftsmanship. This comes from the urban renewal focus in W Hollywood Hotel. The patterned flooring complements the studio’s custom-designed tables. Embossed wall carvings—depicting leaves and birds—add visual depth without overwhelming the overall scene.
Nighttime Transformation in Function and Atmosphere
As evening falls, the space gradually transforms into a more intimate setting. Romantic backlighting allows the main room to be used as a private dining area. Notably, this aesthetic shift is inspired by the symbolism of “Venus.” “Venus” in ancient mythology represents concepts of love, beauty, and fertility. It’s another example of the strategic urban renewal of the W Hollywood Hotel.
Start Your Day with a Freshly Baked Pancake Selection
Begin your day with a variety of pancakes freshly baked daily. These are offered at the pastry counter and coffee area in the front room. Among the standout breakfast options is the breakfast burrito. It is stuffed with hash browns, avocado, and 24-hour slow-cooked short rib wagyu. It is served with Chef Wilma Ventura-Washa’s special ranchero sauce—rivaling the famous version found in the city’s Great White cafés.
Lunch Menu Highlights
The lunch menu features a falafel sandwich. It also offers a Thai chicken salad with ginger-lemon dressing, a heritage recipe from the chef’s grandmother. This touch is part of the W Hollywood Hotel’s urban renewal, focusing on diverse culinary experiences.
A New Evening Offering
In a new development, the café will now open for dinner. It will present the “There There” menu inspired by the Living Room lounge. Options include chicken fingers with caviar and wild mushroom croquettes. The menu also features white miso and matcha green tea cheesecake, showcasing the urban renewal efforts within W Hollywood Hotel. There is also the “Purple Haze” cocktail made from Roku gin and lavender agave.