There's something of the W chain about this operation, located in the building that previously housed a branch of the unremarkable Radisson chain. The design of the public areas makes the most of the sunlight that so often illuminates Santa Monica: the occasional shiny surface and lots of light colours, including a daring amount of white that must have the cleaners working overtime.
The most memorable space is the Penthouse, a handsome, airy and altogether quite impressive bar/restaurant that affords dramatic views over the Pacific. Many of the rooms also look out towards the ocean. There's no pool, but the beach is a mere pebble's throw away.
Area Los Angeles
Transport Bus 4, 20, 534, 704, 720, SM1, SM7, SM8, SM10/I-10, exit 4th-5th street north.
Telephone 1-310 394 5454
Rates $369-$469.
Facilities Business centre. Bar/café. Concierge. Gym. Internet: Wireless (paid) ($9.95). Parking: Parking (paid) ($30). Restaurant (2). Room service. Smoking rooms. TV: DVD & pay movies.
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