FOR those of you who were wondering if Golden Age Los Angeles still exists, it does; and all you have to do to access it is visit the delightful Culver Hotel in Downtown Culver City, located in West Los Angeles. Described as the neighbourhood’s first “skyscraper” after opening in 1924, the six-storey flatiron building designed by the prolific architecture firm Curlett and Beelman cuts a dazzling figure on the main street, and is officially cherished for its landmark looks through its inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places. The elegant building, a hallmark of the Renaissance Revival style, was constructed by real estate developer Harry Culver a few years after he founded his very own city, which is going strong; 2017 marks Culver City’s centennial.
The Culver Hotel at night
During its heyday, the Culver was a magnet for movie stars, with important film studios operating in the area, including Metro-Goldwyn-Meyer and the Culver Studios, which produced such classics as Gone with The Wind and The Wizard of Oz (the Culver famously hosted over a hundred of the Oz’s Munchkins and a wonderful window display that can be viewed from the hotel’’ exterior showcases related memorabilia). Add former owners Charlie Chaplin and John Wayne to the mix, and it’s safe to say that the Culver has had a rich, enchanting and unique history.
The Culver Hotel, bathroom detailsThe hotel’s skill has been to make good use of such an illustrious past – maintaining the feeling of stepping back in time – while keeping one foot firmly in the 21st century, offering an array of modern and first-rate amenities, and, furthermore, a truly fantastic location. Its Grand Lobby, a clear pièce de résistance, is the heart of the Culver, and sets the tone for the property immediately upon arrival. With epic ceilings, grand chandeliers and ornate cornices, the room, which functions as a dining area, drinks lounge and relaxation spot for guests and members of the public alike, is a striking and atmospheric space.
A room door at The Culver HotelThe Culver’s 46 guest rooms – surely the marker of a true boutique property – maintain this elegant grandeur, with antique oak cabinets, velvet armed benches and crystal lamps. Bathrooms are particularly noteworthy for their commitment to antique designs, as well as their spacious windows, which bring in an abundance of natural light. The views of the nearby hilly landscape also create a very special environment.
A Culver Hotel suiteOccupying such a central spot is certainly one of the hotel’s most impressive features. Other than being a short walk away from the metro station, as well as an equally short drive or train ride from nearby Santa Monica and Venice Beach, the area is thriving with local activities to tap into, and all of it can be easily accessed via foot – rare in Los Angeles! The main stretch of Culver Boulevard has a variety of enjoyable cafes and restaurants (Bacoshop and Make Out are highly recommended), while Venice Boulevard, which runs parallel, is your place for Indian cuisine.
A Casa de Culver: cocktail prepared by Bartender Constantine Williamswhich includes Casamigo tequila, pamplemousse rose, fresh lime, agave, and salt
The Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook is a lovely walking area that offers super views of Los Angeles, while The Platform is a haven for food and retail boutiques, including Blue Bottle Coffee, Aesop, Poketo and Loqui. After hitting the shops, make sure to walk south onto Hayden Tract for some stunning architectural experiments. Then, for an evening out, there is the ArcLight cinema, situated just next to the Culver, as well as the renowned Kirk Douglas Theatre.
The Culver Hotel Velvet LoungeBut let’s not forget the live jazz that the hotel hosts in its Grand Lobby every night of the week. How many hotels can boast that? During these free evening showcases, a 1920s ambiance is certainly channelled, and food and drinks from the hotel’s bar and restaurant means that a fun night can be made of it. For a more private atmosphere, head up to the Velvet Lounge, a noirish space tucked away on the mezzanine level that offers a speakeasy vibe, signature cocktails and soft lighting.
The Blue Suite at the Culver HotelIn the morning, when you need a relaxing spot to start your day after a night of excitement, make a beeline for the gorgeous Garden Patio, which is situated in the charming junction outside of the hotel, where the cinema and cafes are located. Having such a pleasant (and expansive) section of outdoor space is rare for a city hotel, and one of the nicest things about the neighbourhood is that it is lively without being filled with tourists, so you won’t come across any unwelcome distractions as you’re having breakfast in the sunshine.
Perfect for a weekend getaway or more substantial city break, the Culver Hotel is fitting for exploring current-day Los Angeles while being transported back to heady days gone by.
by Derby Jones
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