There’s a new trend of curated, short term/extended-stay residential buildings popping up, to cater to the nomadic, multi-hyphenate creative. You know, the creatives that need fresh, new surroundings—while writing their next screenplay, recording their new alt-pop EP, or mood-boarding their next fashion collection—and there are two new boutique extended-stay residences to accommodate that crowd—and in beautiful, sunny Los Angelos at that! The James of Hollywood and Villa Carlotta, are two impeccably curated hubs for creative expression; complete with thoughtfully designed (and fully furnished) apartments, 24 hour concierge, gyms—with Peloton bikes—Byredo skincare products (I mean does it get any more luxurious than that), housekeeping, laundry, Nespresso Machines and a host of other services, all right in the center of bustling, Hollywood.
With the climate of work culture changing and a shifting evaluation of work-life balance, many creatives are migrating to other creatives hubs to explore new environments. Providing fully furnished studios and apartments, with a host of amenities, boutique residences like The James Hollywood and Villa Carlotta, create a serene, environment with no hassle. Grazia got the chance to check out the two historic properties—including a fabulous weekend stay at The James Hollywood—keep reading along, below to learn more about these impressive residences.
The James Hollywood:
Walking into the The James Hollywood, with its swanky, retro Hollywood but with a fresh perspective, aesthetic, you instantly feel the time and attention put into every single detail.“We’re delighted to offer short- and long-term residents luxury and upscale homes right in the in the heart of Hollywood,” said Gidi Cohen, Founder and CEO of CGI Real Estate Investment Strategies. Nestled in Hollywood history, just steps away from the iconic Hollywood Boulevard, The James is a complete aesthetic, visceral experience; From the uber stylish lobby—with it’s moody, cigar lounge tones and original terrazzo floors—to the Palm Room bar/lounge—the perfect place for a morning coffee, with it’s bespoke neon sign, wicker peacock love-seat and Parisian café style marble tables—to the record lounge/library, complete with a stone fireplace, Al Green records, tons of art and culture books and two beautiful Palm leaf, crystal chandeliers—to the serene, signature scent that flows throughout every corner of the building (and we do mean every corner, even in the leather padded elevators). The James perfectly achieves this beautiful juxtaposition of blending old Hollywood with contemporary design.
The James, originally designed in the 1920’s as a Mediterranean revival style apartment building by famed architect, Lewis A. Smith—responsible for many of Los Angeles’ first-ever cinemas including the Ritz and Beverly Theater—boost 73 units, from spacious studios to one bedrooms, all with seriously stylish interiors. Wood floors, custom House of Hackney floral wallpapered walls, Thonet dining chairs in the fully stocked and fitted kitchen, a mix of mid-century modern and Hollywood regency style furniture, plush velvet sofas, American walnut beds with brass trim and leather headboards, linen Venetian shades—The James is for the creative that enjoys really great design. On top of the quality design, each unit is fully stocked with Byredo, Gypsy Water products—I mean showering and washing your hair everyday with Byredo products? Does it get any better?
Not only is the property incredibly styled but the amenities are just as thoughtful. Managed by Bread & Salt Hospitality, resident amenities include day-time concierge service, housekeeping, laundry services and a state-of-the-art fitness center, on-site parking, complimentary breakfast and a designated outdoor pet areas as well as dog walking services. The James, previously known as ‘The Commodore of Hollywood’, was a Hollywood hub for emerging actors including Robert Vaughn, Clara Blandick, Aubrey Scotto, Addie McPhail, William Edmunds and Matthew Boulton. The building later continued to be a firm favorite for Hollywood stars and musicians, including legendary rock band KISS—so it makes perfect sense why today’s creatives; writers, actors, musicians etc. would flock to stay at the extended-stay residence. The property’s tagline: “Boutique Residences for L.A.’s Eclectic & Avant-garde” speaks to the creative energy, roaming throughout.
Check out images of the retro Art Deco/Bohemian inspired boutique residence below:
Villa Carlotta:
You know when you watch Ryan Murphy’s “Hollywood” and you see all the stunning, regency, old Hollywood architecture and interiors? Yeah, Villa Carlotta is that Hollywood fantasy come to life, through a modern, updated lens. Heralded as one of Hollywood’s most iconic buildings and historical landmarks, Villa Carlotta sits right in the heart of Hollywood’s Franklin Village, underneath the Hollywood sign—the rooftop lounge host an unparalleled view of the cityscape including the sign. Whereas The James has a more Art Deco aesthetic, Villa Carlotta takes on a luxe, ornate Churrigueresque-style (Spanish baroque) with it’s luscious dark jeweled tone furniture, Juliet balconies, stone fireplace, fresco art ceilings and Moroccan style garden and pool.
Also, the Spanish style residence, is steeped in Hollywood history. (Story time ahead):
Villa Carlotta, was originally built by the first major Hollywood studio head, Thomas Ince and his wife Eleanor, and designed by Arthur E. Harvey—architect of the Scientology Celebrity Center that sits across the street—and played home to a host of Hollywood icons including Marion Davies, Montgomery Clift, and gossip columnist Louella Parsons, whose write-ups were delivered to a courier from her apartment window. Legend also has it that William Randolph Hearst financed the building in 1926, after he accidentally shot and killed American silent film producer, Thomas Ince on his yacht in 1924 (the bullet was apparently intended for screen icon Charlie Chaplin, whom Hearst believed was having an affair with his mistress, Davies). So not only is this building gorgeous, it’s also the stuff of Hollywood legend.
The historic landmark, which was restored with support from the Hollywood Heritage Museum and the Los Angeles Office of Historic Resources, features fifty spacious suites—ranging from studios to two bedrooms. With Juliet balconies, beamed ceilings, gorgeous wood floors, wrought-iron window grilles, fully fitted kitchens with dining areas—also with Thonet bistro chairs—and stellar views of the Hollywood sign, the design is Baroque meets Hollywood regency, all with a contemporary perspective. All suites feature luxurious La Bottega slipper and robes, Byredo skincare (again, the luxury), Nespresso Machines, French bed linen from Malouf and an app-based 24 hour concierge system. Amenities include valet parking, housekeeping, laundry services, complimentary happy hour for residents—complete with a musical guest, and accompanying pianist—gym and the pièce de résistance—a clubhouse accompanied by a pool. The terra-cotta tiled, pool is tucked away in a private garden, sheltered by tall Cyprus trees and an aromatic garden of jasmine, lavender and rosemary all illuminated at night by lanterns. The clubhouse—a stunning five bedroom, two-floor building—features a large reception room with a handmade bar (adorned with stunning orange marble and green tiles) and leads out onto the impressive pool and private garden, for an ultimate summer experience. This is the ultimate Hollywood experience: elegant relaxed style and history!
See more images of the stylish, signature old-world Hollywood, Spanish style interior below:
Next time you find yourself in L.A. for a week, a month long work trip, a creative sabbatical or just simply want a change of scenery, check out The James of Hollywood and Villa Carlotta. We promise you wont be disappointed!
