Sandbourne Santa Monica has opened its doors, introducing a transformative hotel experience along the vibrant Ocean Ave. This new beachfront property, designed by the acclaimed Icelandic architect Gulla Jónsdóttir, offers a unique 175-room coastal retreat that promises to revitalize the upscale hotel landscape in Santa Monica. With an emphasis on engaging all five senses, the hotel is a harmonious blend of natural textures, sculptural elements, indoor and outdoor vibes and Earth tones throughout.
Design is truly the heart and soul of Sandbourne Santa Monica. Gulla Jónsdóttir, known for her work on projects such as Comal at Chileno Bay, an Auberge resort in Los Cabos, the Michelin two-star restaurant, Le Grand restaurant in Paris, Palmilla in Newport Beach and Esperanza in Manhattan Beach, has crafted an environment that exudes peace and tranquility while stimulating all five senses. This includes a signature scent developed with Bio Alchemy Olfactive, enhancing the atmospheric journey from the moment guests step through the sculptural archways into the light-bathed lobby adorned with unique artworks, including a mural by artist Guerin Swing, crafted from fire hoses from the Santa Monica Fire Department, bringing attention to upcycling and repurposing as well as representing how water flows through the Santa Monica basin.
“The idea and thought was the dichotomy of a back door leading to the serene sand and the front door opening to the bustling city sets the stage for a unique experience—a blend of tranquility and urban vibrancy,” Jónsdóttir said. “It was this fusion of elements that create a space that embraces both relaxation and contemporary luxury, a concept coined as ‘sand chic.'”
Situated with direct access to the iconic Santa Monica Beach, Sandbourne offers a blend of coastal relaxation and urban excitement. Guests can unwind at the heated pool with luscious cabanas, the pool-side Sunset Lounge or stay active at the indoor/outdoor fitness center. The hotel’s expansive event spaces totaling 10,000 sq. ft. provide an ideal venue for gatherings, and in 2025, will bring the addition of a full-service wellness spa. There’s also a private 200-sq.-ft. on-site dog park.
“The design is relaying the unique environment of the Sandbourne—its location and the uniqueness of being a part of Los Angeles,” Jónsdóttir said. “It’s a concept that effortlessly merges the laid-back ease of coastal living with the sleek elegance and sophistication of modern urban design.”
Inside, the hotel transforms into a terracotta-toned sanctuary that echoes the natural landscape. The decor features clay pottery and lush plants, enhancing the serene ambiance and a nightly incense ritual, welcoming both guests and the public. The terrace and courtyard is an inviting space with lush greenery, plush lounge seating and firepits.
“The combination of these two contrasting worlds—sand and city ‘sand chic’ that created our color palette; a space where natural textures like woven fibers and soft linens coexist harmoniously with sleek, polished surfaces, contemporary art pieces and minimalist accents,” Jónsdóttir said.
Sandbourne will feature artists-in-residency, inviting a hand-selected group of ceramics artists to apply and participate in the internal ceramics program. Artists from around the world will have the opportunity to create pieces and showcase their art on property.
Guests are also invited to participate in a signature activation, Ceramics by the Pool, a 45-minute pinch pot clay class. Guided by a local ceramics artist, guests will learn the art of pinch pot clay and craft their creations, resulting in a one-of-a-kind keepsake from their time at Sandbourne.
“Hotels are increasingly using custom art and bespoke installations as integral parts of their design,” Jónsdóttir said. “This trend moves beyond mere decoration, making art a core element of the hotel’s identity and guest experience Integration of Art: Hotels are increasingly using custom art and bespoke installations as integral parts of their design. This trend moves beyond mere decoration, making art a core element of the hotel’s identity and guest experience. And you can see this walking through the Sandbourne. We like to think that the trend is catching up to us.”
The culinary scene at Sandbourne is spearheaded by the debut of Marelle, a California-driven restaurant and bar by Santa Monica native and culinary luminary, Chef Raphael Lunetta. Under the creative direction of Jónsdóttir, the 187-seat venue melds elegance with sculptural designs, including handmade ceramic pendant lamps designed by Gulla in collaboration with Laviva home, made by their team in Oaxaca, Mexico.