by Ian Jones | 09 Sep 2020 | Projects

Following an extensive renovation project, the 200-room Mar Monte Hotel in Santa Barbara on the Californian coast has joined The Unbound Collection by Hyatt brand.

The 1930s Vista Mar Monte has been reincarnated as the Mar Monte Hotel, becoming Santa Barbara’s newest lifestyle boutique hotel thanks to a host of contemporary amenities and design features. With this latest property, The Unbound Collection by Hyatt brand grows to 21 hotels worldwide.

A warm and welcoming destination

Taking inspiration from the movements of the tide, the property flows seamlessly from indoors to outdoors over three acres of Spanish-influenced grounds. It’s located at the entrance to the American Riviera, based across the street from East Beach, a stone’s throw from Downtown Santa Barbara and the well-known Funk Zone.

Ingrid Braun, general manager of Mar Monte Hotel, said: “The unveiling of Mar Monte Hotel is a proud moment for our entire team. We had a vision to forge a deep connection with the local community and provide inspiration to our guests through unrivalled access to the very best of Santa Barbara. Through this transformation, we’ve not only created an inspiring property and thought-provoking experiences for the spirited lifestyle traveller, but also a warm and welcoming destination for those who call Santa Barbara home.”

The interior design was led by Los Angeles-based Beleco, which used bright white walls to provide an airy, welcoming feel to the lobby and living room. The property also features exposed beam ceilings and arches, feature chandeliers, terracotta-tiled flooring and a ceramic art installation behind the reception desk. A subtle, earthen colour palette is employed to give a Spanish-style feel.

Oceanfront and mountain views

The 200 guest rooms offer views of either the mountains or the ocean, using simple but sophisticated design features such as soft hues, natural textures, and textile-like carpeting. Additionally, the standalone Palmoro House is a 24-room retreat within walking distance of the main hotel, which can be booked out in full.

There are two restaurants, costa and Café Lido, both led by executive chef Nathan Lingle. Costa offers a dinner-only service based around shoreline Italian cuisine and Eastern Mediterranean ideas, while Café Lido provides an all-day dining experience, focusing on light Californian and Mediterranean dishes. The hotel also offers a variety of yoga classes and programming options including a cocktail-focused evening event, weekly wine tastings and various local tours and activities.

Last but not least, the property has 15,000 sq ft of meeting and event space suitable for weddings and over special functions, delivering scenic views across the Pacific Ocean for a maximum of 270 guests.