USA TODAY International Edition
Hotels embrace mid- century roots
Renovations add updates but keep hip, modern feel
Classic mid- century modern hotels are characterized by minimalistic structures and clean lines, accented by simple décor in vibrant colors. Instantly recognizable, mid- century hotels are now enjoying a renewed popularity, both with nostalgic travelers and by Millennials who admire the timeless modern design and the casual ambiance it embodies.
In recent years, several iconic U. S. mid- century hotels have been reinvented and given a new, contemporary point of view, while still retaining the essence of the era. These properties have embraced their mid- century heritage with a renewed vibe and updated feel, giving guests a glimpse of stylish ( and sometimes kitschy) history while they enjoy modern comforts and amenities. THE MONKEY TREE HOTEL PALM SPRINGS, CALIF. A hotbed of mid- century architecture, the city of Palm Springs is known for its numerous examples of both private residences and hotels. The boutique Monkey Tree opened its doors in 2016 after renovating the 16- room property designed in 1960 by famed Palm Springs architect Albert Frey.
Husband and wife team Gary and Kathy Friedle sourced all the 1960s furnishings locally — from flea markets, consignment stores, auctions and estate sales. Pops of bright yellow and teal, inspired by a visit to the Albert Frey II house, run throughout the resort. Surrounding the pool is yellow- andwhite repurposed patio furniture. Outside of all hotel rooms are authentic Salterini teal lounge chairs and cocktail tables that are original to the property.
Kathy explained, “We endeavored to re- create the feel of 1960s Palm Springs ‘ chill’ with a few modern twists. The design of the individual rooms is simple and clean. Our goal was to create a comfortable environment for our guests without pretension. Fortunately for us, not many alterations had been done over the past years — and the excellent 1960 bones of The Monkey Tree hotel were intact.” themonkeytreehotel.com THE DIPLOMAT BEACH RESORT HOLLYWOOD, FLA. The Diplomat Hotel was a hip Southern Florida hangout for Frank Sinatra and his Rat Pack buddies in the 1950s and ’ 60s. The Diplomat, which had its grand reopening in April, celebrates its past with a multimillion- dollar renovation and distinctive design elements.
The thousand- room resort taps into the mid- century modern appeal with simple, contemporary furnishings, bold pops of color and sharp lines. There are plenty of nostalgic accents throughout, including the coral-colored logo, black and white surf photos and antique light fixtures. For an added touch, 1950s- style mini refrigerators in bright hues are featured in the rooms.
The resort sports three swimming pools, 10 restaurants and cafés, a spa and numerous indoor and outdoor lounging areas. diplomatresort.com ANDAZ WEST HOLLYWOOD CALIFORNIA With a prime location in the heart of the famed Sunset Strip, the Andaz WeHo has an illustrious history.
Nicknamed the Hyatt “riot” House during its heyday in the early 1970s, it was a raucous home- away- from- home for major rock bands including Led Zeppelin and The Who.
Today, the 14- story, 239- room landmark Los Angeles property embodies the mid- century feel with an airy, modern lobby featuring retro- style decor. Rooms include streamlined furnishings, glass- enclosed balconies and a selection of vintage vinyl records. The hotel’s rooftop pool deck is the highest in West Hollywood, overlooking a vibrant neighborhood scene.
Designer Jonathan Adler created a custom suite that reflects the hotel’s rock ’ n’ roll roots with ’ 70s- inspired artwork and decor. The room features a red, white and blue color scheme and is furnished with custom pieces ( as well as items from the Jonathan Adler collection).
“Over the years, there has been a revival in appreciation for midcentury design at home, and now people want those same clean, thoughtful designs when they travel,” Adler said. “The idea of a luxurious hotel has changed ( thankfully!) — it’s no longer about overstuffed, baroque chintz.” westhollywood. andaz. hyatt. com THE WATERGATE HOTEL WASHINGTON The name is synonymous with a political scandal, but the Watergate’s iconic architecture is considered a classic example of mid- century hotel design. After being shuttered for more than a decade, the hotel reopened in 2016 following extensive renovations and upgrades.
Originally opened in 1967, the Watergate was designed by Italian architect Luigi Moretti, known for his inventive and unusual structural approach. The hotel honored the avant- garde design with modern décor and art installations throughout the vast lobby and public spaces.
Adding a dramatic centerpiece to the lobby is an artful 46- foot brass reception desk. The invigorated space also features soaring metallic columns and reflective surfaces, a bold red sectional sofa and intricately patterned handwoven rugs in shades of black and gray. thewatergatehotel.com