Summertime is here, and California offers some of the best destinations, views and lodging to enjoy some much-needed R&R. BraytonHughes has designed stunning road trip destinations that not only offer some of the best scenic views California has to offer, but also include timeless design with the perfect connection between natural setting and interior experiences.
If landing at San Francisco’s International Airport, the journey begins at the luxurious on-airport hotel, Grand Hyatt at SFO. In designing interiors for the hotel’s lobby, guestrooms, and public spaces, we channeled the spirit of Northern California by gesturing toward the bay, parks and green spaces, allowing guests to embark on a journey as soon as they step off the AirTrain or arrive by car. For example, the lobby palette hints at a walk through the local redwoods with slatted partitions of dark wood creating dappled light, complemented with the warmth of wood plank floors and a fireplace.
When in Wine Country, Avow, a historic and iconic restaurant in downtown Napa, is the perfect place to discover a new wine and enjoy authentic California cuisine amid a sophisticated and lively cosmopolitan vibe. The renovated tri-level bar and restaurant features delicately layered interiors across three levels, each with its own set of windows and features. Though tones may or may not change subtly from floor to floor, the common denominator across all three levels are tin ceilings, original, refinished wood floors and oak and brick texture on the walls.
Driving south of San Francisco? The iconic Ventana Big Sur, an Alila Resort, magnificently perched overlooking the Pacific Ocean, offers a luxury resort experience to unwind and fill your spirit. Ventana’s rustic-refined design is inspired by the region’s natural beauty and history. Surrounded by lush forests, this resort feels like a secret enclave in the woods, and its wood and stone details enhance the natural ambiance of the space. Don’t forget to stop by the Big Sur Smokehouse, the 1867 Post Family homestead, that we restored along with Mason Architects into the roadside joint serving tasty BBQ.
We are certain that these travel destinations are perfect to toast the breezy California summer nights away!