Rooms I Love and Why- No. 3 in the Series- The Sunset Tower Hotel and Restaurant
From the website; The Sunset Tower is a Hollywood landmark. Up to the 1950s it was as much a tourist attraction as the Hollywood sign itself. It has appeared in a number of films, including The Italian Job, Get Shorty, The Player and Strange Days. Its first literary mention was in Raymond Chandler's Farewell, My Lovely (1940).
Designed in 1929 by architect Leland A. Bryant, the Sunset Tower (as it was originally called) was a trendsetter from the moment it opened. Its dramatic setting on the Sunset Strip and elegant Art Deco styling, together with its proximity to famous restaurants and nightclubs of the 1930s & ’40s, contributed to its landmark status. West Hollywood has always catered to celebrities wishing to draw attention to their star power.
The Sunset Tower embodied these aspirations, counting among its former residents Howard Hughes, John Wayne, Billie Burke, Marilyn Monroe, Errol Flynn, Elizabeth Taylor, Frank Sinatra, Paulette Goddard, Zasu Pitts, and even gangster Bugsy Siegel. Leland Bryant specialized in luxury apartments, but the Sunset Tower was his crowning achievement. His work was predominantly in Period Revival, but with this building he proved that he was equally adept with the then contemporary Deco style. To attract a demanding clientele, the Sunset Tower incorporated the latest in both technology and design. There were modern conveniences, like outlets in every bathroom for electric shavers, and the windows were made larger to take advantage of the spectacular views.
This hotel, the public rooms, the guest rooms - are a collective statement about subtlety. The soft California light is given warm woods, neutrals, pinks and salmons with just enough rich details to make it special while still keeping the special residential feeling. Part of the overall feeling, is that of privacy - indeed protection. As design is about function first, one of the requirements was to provide a haven for the famous in Hollywood, and a large part is the cocoon of warmth you experience when at the property.
While making reservations, one is reminded of discretion and no- photography at the hotel. Because you will be in proximity with high profile actors there is a concerted effort to maintain very high degree of privacy for public figures. The website states; “Photography or filming is not allowed anywhere on hotel property unless approved by the General Manager.” They even print this on the menus; “No Photographs | No Phone Calls”
“Steeped in the mystery of a glamorous Hollywood long past, walnut-paneled walls frame sweeping views of the city. Here guests can sip cocktails in flattering rose-colored light, lulled by the playing of famed jazz pianists.”
"An elegant safe haven for the players," says owner Jeff Klein, "where a duchess can be a devil, and a celebrity can dine with his family one night and his mistress the next."
Indeed, it is the colour of the light ( as so often is the case in California), and the very unique blend of old-school Hollywood, with a fresh take on today is all over the place.
Upon entering, there is the de-riguer valet parking, and a sense of being ushered in. The small flight of steps up to the small reception area – whereupon you feel the glow immediately. Warm afternoon light coming in from small windows, against the dark wood paneling, and a small fireplace going here and there. There is no chill outside, but a definite cozy feeling here. The mix of the dark woods and a certain feeling of lightness was amazing. Never stodgy or old-fashioned, but just drenched in history and movie-star glamour. Quiet glamour, but a richness to it all.
The policies of no photography and no phone calls goes hand in hand with the no-in-room-parties, and the ever-watchful gaze of the hosts. Like the décor, there is a sense of freedom, surrounded with a lot of protection. If I was a high-powered celebrity, this atmosphere would be most welcoming. We were at dinner one evening during the week, and it was definitely not busy. We engaged in the most wonderful conversation with the table next to us at the banquette, and just as easy as everything else, Jennifer Aniston was dining just two tables away perfectly safe from prying eyes, and the violation that the public can bring.
(below) The Terrace Bar offers cocktail & dining experience with dark wood paneling, booths and cocktail tables.
(above) The Terrace Room is bright & airy, with custom pink suede semi-circular banquettes and sofas accented by potted palm trees.The refreshed outdoor portion of the Terrace offers a relaxed, casual setting for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Crisp white cushions, a covered travertine lanai with a view of the swimming pool and spectacular views of LA make even the locals feel as if they're on vacation.
This room is perhaps the most historic one, Especially in the 1950s and 1960s this was the coveted spot to see and be seen. Roy Rogers lived upstairs, Lucille O’ball and Desi Arnaz, Bob Hope, Dean Martin, and many other stars were camped out on this terrace making deals, and soaking in the experience. Today is not very different, albeit the bar and dining room may be the preferred spots.
The terrace is also available for private events with a separate entrance.
