The just-debuted Fairmont Century Plaza is the city’s hottest new star
In Partnership with FAIRMONT CENTURY PLAZA
Words by SAMANTHA BROOKS
Anyone who grew up in Los Angeles knows that the Century Plaza has long been associated with some of California’s most glamorous events, from celebrity-studded parties to sophisticated political dinners (it was previously nicknamed the “Western White House,” as it was a favorite of President Ronald Reagan’s and was the first venue outside of D.C. to host a state dinner). Now, after a four-year, $2.5 billion renovation, the new Fairmont Century Plaza is poised to be a new kind of cultural landmark.
The property’s original Minoru Yamasaki-designed structure was included on the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s list of America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places in 2009 and remains as a nod to the hotel’s past. However, ushering it into the future is a collection of additions that have made it one of the city’s hottest contemporary attractions. The new Fairmont hotel includes 315 guest rooms and 85 suites (half as many rooms as the original hotel), all with private terraces and new decor from acclaimed firm Yabu Pushelberg.
When not enjoying the rooms’ tranquil setting — cool gray furnishings, plush neutral linens, original landscape artworks — guests will flock to the signature restaurant, Lumière, a traditional French-inspired brasserie delivering sophisticated dining and legendary service. Featuring local, seasonal ingredients and refined dishes, brasserie favorites include French onion soup, steak frites, seafood towers and magnums of Champagne. The restaurant embodies a design that is classic yet modern and chic, with authentically vintage furniture and fixtures paired with sumptuously rich jewel tones. At its heart, Lumière celebrates timeless bohemian glamour, with a fresh West Coast perspective.
A new 14,000-square-foot spa has been created with both wellness and pampering in mind, offering a comprehensive menu that features programming centered on emotional, physical and spiritual growth.
The Bar at Century Plaza is the central heart, embodying the energy of a great concert. Live music has flowed through the veins of the Century Plaza since Day One, from Sonny and Cher to Mariah Carey, Elton John, Aretha Franklin and everyone in between.
Of course, the crown jewel of the hotel is the rooftop pool, with sweeping views from the 17th floor. Guests can relax and unwind year-round while gazing out to the Pacific Ocean, the Hollywood Hills, Downtown and the mountains.
October 6, 2021
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