You’ve probably seen the photos. Those curved sofas, the endless sandy neutrals, and that rooftop pool that seems to have a permanent lease on the Golden Hour. But honestly, staying at the Santa Monica Proper Hotel a Member of Design Hotels isn't just about bagging a high-end Instagram shot. It’s about a specific kind of vibe that’s hard to replicate. Most "luxury" hotels in Los Angeles feel like they're trying way too hard to be either a movie set or a museum. This place? It just feels like the world's most expensive, well-curated living room.
Kelly Wearstler, the interior design powerhouse, basically took the concept of "beach house" and turned it inside out. She didn't go for the cliché navy blues or anchor motifs. Instead, she leaned into textures—raw wood, chunky stone, and vintage rugs that look like they've seen some things. It’s the flagship of the Proper brand for a reason.
The Weird History Behind the Architecture
Most people don't realize the hotel is actually a bit of a Frankenstein’s monster, but in the best way possible. It’s split between two very different buildings. One is a 1928 Spanish Colonial Revival landmark, originally the Santa Monica Professional Building. It’s got that old-school medical office soul, with narrow hallways and original crown molding. The other half is a hyper-modern, sleek concrete wing designed by Howard Laks Architects.
The contrast is jarring if you look at it from the street, but inside? It works. Walking from the historic wing to the new wing feels like a time-traveling stroll. You've got 271 rooms spread across these two structures, and none of them feel cookie-cutter. That’s the "Design Hotels" ethos coming through—it’s about the spirit of the place, not just a brand checklist.
I’ve spent time in both sections. The historic rooms feel cozy, almost secretive. The new wing is where you go for those floor-to-ceiling windows and the feeling of being "in" the city.
Is the Location Actually Good?
Here is the truth: it’s not on the beach. If you want to wake up with sand practically hitting your window, go to the Shutters on the Beach or Hotel Casa del Mar. Those are great, but they're traditional.
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The Santa Monica Proper Hotel is located on Wilshire Blvd, about seven blocks from the Pacific.
Is that a dealbreaker? Usually, no. Being slightly inland means you’re closer to the real Santa Monica. You’re within walking distance of the Wednesday Farmers Market—which is legendary among LA chefs—and places like Bay Cities Italian Deli (get the Godmother, thank me later). You aren't trapped in the tourist vortex of the Pier. You’re living like a local who happens to have a massive expense account.
The Rooftop Situation
Calabra is the name you need to know. It’s the rooftop restaurant and bar, and on a Friday night, it’s the center of the universe for the Westside creative crowd. The food is Mediterranean-meets-California. Think charred octopus, hummus that’s smoother than your car’s suspension, and cocktails that cost $22 but actually pack a punch.
The pool is right there, too. It’s small. Let’s be real. If you’re looking to do Olympic laps, this isn't the spot. But for lounging with a view of the Santa Monica Mountains? It’s unbeatable.
The Wellness Layer: Surya Spa
A lot of hotels claim to have "wellness centers" that are basically a treadmill and a bowl of green apples. The Proper went a different route. They partnered with Martha Soffer of Surya Spa.
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This isn't your typical Swedish massage and seaweed wrap vibe. It’s authentic Ayurveda. We're talking about Panchakarma programs that last several days, specialized oil treatments (Abhyanga), and a focus on "healing from within."
It smells incredible. Like herbal oils and calm. Even if you aren't into the spiritual side of things, the design of the spa alone—rich woods and soft lighting—is enough to drop your heart rate by ten beats per minute the second you walk in. It’s pricey, sure. But it’s one of the few hotel spas in California that feels like a destination in its own right rather than an afterthought in the basement.
Why "Design Hotels" Membership Matters
You’ll see the "Member of Design Hotels" tag everywhere. It’s not just a fancy badge. Design Hotels is a curated collection of properties that are "stewarded by originals." In this case, that original is Brad Korzen (who happens to be Wearstler’s husband).
The membership means the hotel has to maintain a certain level of cultural relevance. It’s why you’ll find weird, beautiful coffee table books in the lobby instead of generic travel brochures. It’s why the staff wears uniforms that look like they were plucked off a runway in Copenhagen.
The Room Details You’ll Actually Notice
- The Beds: They use Bellino Italian linens. They’re crisp. Not that weird, slippery satin feel, but actually breathable.
- The Tech: Everything is controlled via a tablet. Lights, curtains, room service. It’s intuitive, which is rare because hotel tech usually requires a PhD to turn off a reading lamp.
- The Minibar: It’s not just Diet Coke and Pringles. Expect craft bitters, high-end mezcal, and snacks that actually taste good.
- The Bathrooms: Most have walk-in showers with Aesop products. If you know, you know. That scent of geranium and cedarwood is basically the unofficial perfume of the Proper brand.
What People Get Wrong
People often think this is a "party" hotel because it’s so stylish. Honestly? It’s pretty chill. During the day, the lobby is filled with people on MacBooks drinking oat milk lattes. It’s a creative hub.
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The biggest misconception is that it's "too cool" for families. While it definitely leans toward adults, the staff is surprisingly accommodating. That said, if your kids like to scream in the pool, you’re going to get some very pointed looks from the people in $400 sunglasses nearby.
The Environmental Footprint
Santa Monica has some of the strictest building codes in the country when it comes to sustainability. The hotel reflects that. They use a lot of reclaimed materials. The lighting is almost all LED. They’ve minimized single-use plastics long before it was the "trendy" thing to do. It’s a LEED-certified project, which is a massive headache for developers but great for the planet.
Actionable Tips for Your Stay
If you’re planning to book a stay at the Santa Monica Proper Hotel a Member of Design Hotels, don’t just show up and hope for the best.
- Request the Historic Wing: If you want character and thick walls, ask for a room in the landmark building. If you want light and views, stay in the new wing.
- Book Surya Spa Early: It fills up weeks in advance, especially on weekends. Don't wait until you check in to try and snag a treatment.
- Dine at Calabra at Sunset: Time your reservation for 20 minutes before sunset. The way the light hits the coast from that height is the best free show in the city.
- Use the Bikes: The hotel provides Linus bikes. Santa Monica is incredibly bike-friendly. Skip the Uber and ride down to the beach path. You can go all the way to Venice or up to Will Rogers State Beach without ever fighting traffic.
- Look for the "Proper Getaway" Rates: They often run deals for California residents or longer stays. Check the Design Hotels website directly as well as the Proper site; sometimes the perks (like late checkout) vary between the two.
The Santa Monica Proper isn't the cheapest stay in LA. It’s not even the most "luxurious" in the gold-leaf and white-glove sense. But it is the most interesting. It’s a masterclass in how to make a large hotel feel intimate and how to make a new building feel like it has a soul. Whether you’re there for a week or just a drink on the roof, it’s hard not to appreciate the sheer amount of thought put into every single square inch of the place.
To get the most out of the experience, focus on the "Proper" programming. They often host yoga on the roof or local art pop-ups in the lobby. Check the digital calendar on the in-room tablet the moment you arrive. Most guests ignore it, but that’s where the actual "lifestyle" part of the hotel happens.