The Mayfair Hotel Brings Old Hollywood Glam to Downtown L.A.

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Even if you don’t know the Mayfair Hotel by name, you likely know its legacy. In 1929, it was the site of the first Academy Awards afterparty, and Hollywood stars like Joan Crawford graced its halls. Almost a century later, the iconic Downtown Los Angeles property has received a major makeover and is perfectly primed to usher in a new generation of glamorous visitors. 

Located in the Westlake section of L.A.—a short trip from city attractions like the Staples Center and the Grammy Museum—the Curlett and Beelman-designed building debuted this summer after extensive renovations by designer Gulla Jónsdóttir. The refreshed and reinvigorated Mayfair retains a classic black and white palette and Art Deco accents, but the designs and details are thoroughly modern. The 294 guestrooms are outfitted with contemporary furnishings and high-tech touches, and the hotel even hosts its very own podcast studio. 

 

The property’s history informs its current incarnation in even the most subtle ways. Eve American Bistro pays homage to a character in Raymond Chandler’s 1939 short story, “I’ll Be Waiting,” which he wrote during his stay at the Mayfair. The M Bar, located in the lobby, and displaying an eye-catching sculpture dubbed The Mayfair Flower, serves up wine, beer, and spirits, as well as light fare from “Hell’s Kitchen” season 12 winner Chef Scott Commings. Guests and locals looking for an array of artisanal coffees and specialty teas will find a cafe haven at Fairgrounds, the hotel’s go-to spot for morning brew, kombucha, whipped-to-order matcha drinks, and diverse food options. Located just behind M Bar, the Library offers up a secluded escape with a large fireplace and book-lined walls. A piano and pool table play up the Jazz Age influences, and curve-backed chairs and cozy nooks inspire a social atmosphere. 

The Mayfair’s pool deck and fitness center are still in the works, but the ballroom is already a main attraction. The third-floor space soars three stories high and has been restored to pay homage to the space where that history-making post-Oscars party took place. The room’s original brick and exposed, industrial concrete beaming are juxtaposed with a massive crystal chandelier, 34-foot white marble fireplace, and floor-to-ceiling antique mirrors.

The Mayfair Hotel is located at 1256 W 7th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90017. For more information or to make a reservation, call 213.632.1200 or visit www.mayfairla.com.