Project
Experience

Hendricks Commercial Properties expanded its commitment to memorable guest experiences with the acquisition of Hotel Santa Barbara. The boutique hotel’s rich history, dating back to 1876, and its legacy as a vibrant and iconic community hub inspired a highly collaborative and complex renovation to welcome a new chapter of style and hospitality.

“The goal of the renovation was to be stewards of the hotel’s legacy, staying true to the distinct architectural history of the building while ushering in a new era,” said Sue Griffin, the vice president of interior design for Hendricks Commercial Properties. “We looked at every detail through the lens of the guest and what will make their stay memorable. We wanted a timeless design that seamlessly blends the beloved cultural nuances of Santa Barbara with expectations of modern luxury.”

Hendricks entrusted Henricksen to work hand in hand with their internal design team, as well as Milwaukee-based architectural firm EUA and local Santa Barbara firm DMHA, to realize their vision. The team explored and priced different design and construction strategies to accomplish the project goals, including refreshing the lobby, updating the corridors, and transforming the 75 guest rooms. After considering various options, a phased strategy was implemented to maintain hotel operations throughout the renovation. The team responded accordingly to effectively and efficiently navigate project details and logistics.

From the outset, the design team was tasked with honoring the hotel’s iconic Spanish Revival character while infusing it with coastal touches to achieve a fresh, welcoming atmosphere. Through extensive research and tours, the team members immersed themselves in the Santa Barbara culture to understand authentic influences and the local hotel competition. This process informed the sourcing for the project as Henricksen balanced the selection of custom and American-made furniture manufacturers with the purchasing of art and accessories from local artists and businesses.

Design decisions aimed to uphold the integrity of the hotel and highlight details that evoke meaningful guest memories. Preserving treasured focal points, such as the Spanish tile staircase and original skylights in the lobby, anchors the new design in the building’s rich history. Communal areas accentuated these with intimate gathering spaces where people could work, enjoy a coffee or cocktail, and have a casual meeting. In addition to the new bar, 1926, the lobby offers several comfortable seating areas, including a large custom communal table with a stone top positioned on a woven wool rug directly under the skylights. The refined furnishings and well-appointed art and accessories in these gathering areas were designed to foster a sense of place and community.

From terra cotta pots, distressed leather, and whitewashed concrete to wrought iron and knotty wood, the earthy colors and textural materials throughout the lobby level achieve a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Live plants and custom art add inviting touches. Henricksen also provided HON furniture for five administrative offices to support hotel operations.

As guests transition from the lobby to the suites, they travel through refreshed corridors infused with the essence of Santa Barbara, featuring a faux tin ceiling, new carpet, and hand-painted Spanish tiles for door signage.

The elevated hospitality experience culminates in the guest suites. Each room received a makeover with new paint, carpet, custom case goods, lounge furniture, window treatments, lighting, and signature artwork. The Henricksen team worked closely with CIX Direct on the custom case goods, including detailed communication on the antique carved headboard design as well as desk and nightstand needs. Throughout the project process, the color palette evolved from light, airy creams to a moody olive green, a change that achieved stunning contrasts, transforming the guest rooms into cozy, distinctive retreats. From the basketweave carpet and wood beaded lampshades to the sculptural wall hangings and postcard-inspired custom art, the thoughtful attention to curated details delivers on the memorable experiences promised by the boutique hotel brand.

“The hospitality experience is classic Santa Barbara reimagined,” described Hotel Santa Barbara General Manager Chris Cline. “It's exciting to show people what's new while letting them reconnect with the timeless qualities they've always loved.”

Achieving the desired results required careful navigation of cherished architectural details, California codes, procurement, delivery, and installation logistics, while maintaining a commitment to the local culture and American-made products. The project’s complexity was heightened by the decision to keep the hotel operational throughout the renovation. Furthermore, the location of the hotel on a pedestrian-only street and existing building conditions required creative problem-solving and meticulous project management. For example, due to the small elevator and narrow hallways, the large custom furniture had to be maneuvered through windows, floor by floor, requiring extensive communication and planning with contractors and installation teams. The collaboration and coordination between Henricksen, Level 3 Construction, Hernandez Installation Services, and Service West allowed the team to successfully address scope changes, project challenges, and timeline adjustments.

"Our collaboration with Hendricksen was very positive,” said Cline. “They were able to support the hotel through consistent communication of expectations and the understanding of our needs. They showed a great deal of respect for our priority of maintaining a positive guest experience, even when construction was at its peak."

“The collaboration with Henricksen has always been so beneficial to us. Their professionalism, communication, and attention to detail fit really well with our organization,” described Griffin. “They were always willing to go the extra mile to help me get this renovation completed. Most importantly, all the work and commitment to our vision have paid off. Our guests relish the unexpected blend of historic charm and modern amenities, and they are activating the new lobby gathering areas we introduced.”

Despite the design pivots, schedule pressure, and logistical hurdles, the project’s success was fueled by teamwork, adaptability, and a steadfast client-first approach. The project demonstrated Henricksen's vast network of resources and broad sourcing capabilities, as well as the ability to manage complex projects while delivering the unique solutions required to achieve memorable boutique hospitality experiences.