The vibrant tapestry of Los Angeles is ever-evolving, with neighborhoods constantly reinventing themselves while holding onto the threads of their past. In a testament to this dynamic, the historic West Adams district welcomes a new landmark: Alsace LA, the area’s first hotel in decades. This boutique hotel is not just a place to stay; it’s a carefully curated experience designed to immerse guests in the rich history and burgeoning cultural scene of one of Los Angeles’ most intriguing neighborhoods. Alsace LA Is Historic West Adams’ First Hotel In Decades represents a revival, a reawakening of a neighborhood with a story to tell.
Nestled just south of the bustling 10 Freeway, strategically positioned between the artistic hub of Culver City and the academic energy of the USC campus, West Adams has quietly but steadily transformed into one of Los Angeles’ most desirable destinations. Its past is a rich mosaic, once the exclusive domain of the city’s elite, later evolving into a thriving center of Black wealth and culture, home to numerous influential figures. Over the past five years, West Adams has experienced a remarkable resurgence, marked by the emergence of acclaimed restaurants, unique shops, inviting cafes, and cutting-edge art galleries. However, until the arrival of Alsace LA, the neighborhood lacked a commensurate accommodation option, a place where visitors could fully immerse themselves in the West Adams experience.
Sharon Feurer, Alsace’s VP of Sales & Marketing, encapsulates the hotel’s mission: "It’s one of the oldest, most architecturally significant, diverse, and authentic neighborhoods in L.A., and with that comes a multi-generational lively community of families. It has also recently experienced a renaissance of businesses that are bringing in more locals and visitors. But there hasn’t been a hotel here in decades. We look at Alsace as being of the community for the community and also as a place to help introduce curious explorers to a new neighborhood and a different part of town to stay in when in L.A." This statement underscores the hotel’s commitment to both the local community and the discerning traveler seeking an authentic Los Angeles experience.
The development of Alsace LA was entrusted to CIM Group, who collaborated with NMDA Architects to create a structure that would not only be visually striking but also harmoniously integrated into the neighborhood’s diverse architectural landscape. West Adams boasts a remarkable collection of buildings and homes, primarily constructed between 1880 and 1925, showcasing a wide array of architectural styles. From the intricate details of Queen Anne Victorians to the understated elegance of Craftsman bungalows, the romanticism of Spanish Revival designs to the grandeur of Beaux-Arts structures, the neighborhood is a living architectural museum.
Alsace LA’s design cleverly synthesizes these influences, resulting in a three-story building that seamlessly blends modern aesthetics with nods to the past. The building incorporates Bauhaus-inspired curves, expansive windows that flood the interiors with natural light, and desert landscaping that reflects the Southern California environment. The exterior is further enhanced by terracotta plaster and tiles, adding a touch of warmth and texture. The lobby, designed to evoke a Mediterranean portico, creates a welcoming and sophisticated atmosphere.
The interior design of Alsace LA was conceived by Brooklyn-based Home Studios, a firm renowned for their work on celebrated establishments like Vini e Fritti and Caffe Marchio. Tasked with creating a cohesive and inviting space, Home Studios drew inspiration from a diverse range of sources, including the vibrant colors and textures of Southern California, the rustic charm of the Mediterranean, the stark beauty of the high desert, and the elegance of bygone eras.
The hotel’s 48 rooms are meticulously designed to provide a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing environment. White oak ceilings and floors create a sense of warmth and sophistication, while bespoke furniture adds a touch of individuality. Vintage or vintage-inspired décor elements, such as upholstered headboard panels, rattan and wood wardrobes, and sculptural brass hooks, contribute to the hotel’s unique character. A tile mural in the lobby and other common area signage, created by L.A. artist Lukas Geronimas Giniotis, adds a touch of local artistry to the overall design.
"It’s a very soothing, welcoming environment. It’s very Southern California, yet there’s a uniqueness to it," Feurer explains. "I can’t say I look at the hotel and go, ‘Oh this reminds me of blank and blank.’" This sentiment highlights the hotel’s success in creating a distinct identity that is both reflective of its location and uniquely its own.
Recognizing the importance of outdoor spaces in the Los Angeles lifestyle, Alsace LA places a strong emphasis on natural light, fresh air, and access to the outdoors. A 2,000-square-foot courtyard and pool provide guests with a tranquil oasis to relax and soak up the California sunshine. Patio dining options and indoor seating will be available at chef Danny Elmaleh’s modern ramen concept, expected to open this winter.
Marketing manager Joseph Poteet notes, "People come to L.A. for the weather, and therefore Alsace was always going to have amazing outdoor spaces. Luckily that external footprint also lends itself to a more COVID-friendly stay." This emphasis on outdoor amenities not only enhances the guest experience but also aligns with current health and safety considerations.
Alsace LA is also catering to the growing trend of work-from-hotel and business travel. A 409-square-foot boardroom provides a dedicated space for meetings and presentations, while select rooms feature balconies or terraces and dining tables, allowing guests to comfortably work and dine in their rooms. To further support business travelers, the hotel has partnered with YOUBE, a new co-working space located just a few blocks away, providing guests with access to workspaces and meeting rooms. And, of course, in keeping with the Los Angeles lifestyle, a 24-hour fitness center is available for guests to maintain their workout routines. Yoga and meditation classes will also be offered in the future.
Beyond its physical amenities, Alsace LA is deeply committed to celebrating the history and culture of West Adams. Partnerships have been formed with local organizations to provide guests with unique and enriching experiences. Adopt A Bike, an organization dedicated to refurbishing and promoting the reuse of bicycles, will conduct monthly historical tours focusing on the neighborhood’s design and the stories of its famous past residents, including Oscar-winner Hattie McDaniel, singer-songwriter Marvin Gaye, and architect Paul Revere Williams. These tours will also delve into the history of West Adams’ transition into an affluent Black neighborhood and the significance of the Sugar Hill court case. Participants will have the opportunity to cycle past notable landmarks such as gardens, Ray Charles’ former recording studio, and filming locations like the "Six Feet Under" funeral home.
Legendary music shop High-Fidelity Records will curate the lobby and in-room playlists, providing guests with a carefully selected soundtrack to their stay. Hi-Lo Liquor will offer on-demand delivery of curated boxes featuring local snacks, beer, wine, and spirits, allowing guests to sample the flavors of Los Angeles from the comfort of their rooms. Alsace LA also plans to host a variety of cultural programming in the courtyard, further enhancing its role as a community gathering spot.
"With our partners’ help, we’re trying to expand the footprint of our space beyond the four walls of the courtyard. We want to encourage our guests to go out and try places like Alta Adams, Johnny’s Pastrami, and Mizlala; to look at the street art, and see the architecture," Feurer explains. "And in turn, we want to bring the neighborhood in and become a community gathering spot." Alsace LA Is Historic West Adams’ First Hotel In Decades seeks to be a bridge between its guests and the vibrant community that surrounds it.
Starting rates are $199 per night. As part of its opening specials, the hotel is offering 15 percent off the best available rate, complimentary room upgrades, and flexible cancellations. To book a stay and experience the unique charm of West Adams, visit the hotel’s website or call 424-305-5400. Alsace LA Is Historic West Adams’ First Hotel In Decades is more than just a place to rest your head; it’s an invitation to explore, discover, and connect with one of Los Angeles’ most dynamic and historically rich neighborhoods. This new hotel embodies the spirit of West Adams: a place where history and innovation converge, creating a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
