Waheeda Harris
Contributing writer
The natural beauty of Runyon Canyon, the buzz of the Sunset Strip and the burgeoning art scene of downtown Los Angeles: These lures of the City of Angels in southern California are on many traveler’s radar. Those who prefer the charm of European-influenced hotels to Hollywood glitz—but still want to be close to L.A. shopping hot spots like Melrose Avenue and the Pacific Design Center—we think will adore West Hollywood’s new No. 850 hotel and want to put it on your radar range.
Hotelier Jeff Klein’s JK Hotel Group, working with architect Marc Appleton and British designer Rita Konig, has just opened this lovely and luxe boutique hotel. Featuring 23 residential-style rooms found within a 1918 historic bungalow, Konig has styled the interiors in pretty pastels and distinctive natural textures, inspired by her recent travels in Sicily.
Residential in feel, No. 850 features a communal living room, rooftop patio and modern pantry that is exclusively for guests, with the latter offering dining experiences from a rotating list of guest chefs from noted Los Angeles restaurants. The Lobby Lounge takes on double duty as the main reception area as well as housing an intimate wine bar. The Living Room is filled with oversized leather furniture and a fireplace, encouraging a social vibe, while the kitchen features daily complimentary breakfast. And, after a day of exploring, the rooftop patio is the place for you to relax during the complimentary daily wine and mezze hour.
Rooms include wood-paneled walls, hardwood floors, selections from a private art collection, king or queen beds with Italian linens, a complimentary minibar and Wi-Fi and, most rooms, even include a balcony and fireplace. Rooms range from a two-story, 405 square foot suite with a ground floor that includes cozy seating and a work area plus an upper floor with a master king bedroom, gable-style ceiling and Juliette balcony, while solo travelers can choose the Carriage Room, with a built-in bed, pastel blue wood paneling and a hidden dresser to maximize the 200 square feet. You’ll feel like you’re living in a well-designed, private college dorm room.
A room at the 850 starts from US$395 per night—after the opening specials are over, that is.