Before & after: Hotel Ynez

Located at the crossroads of Solvang & Santa Ynez, Hotel Ynez can be captured in one simple Scandinavian phrase: hygge - “a quality of coziness that engenders a feeling of well-being.” 

We purchased the property (formerly Meadowlark Inn) in 2019 and spent much of COVID completing the renovation… that’s a story for a different entry. The stunning ancient oak trees demanded to be the focus of the design aesthetic, so a bohemian-chic California-coast retreat seemed like a natural direction. To highlight the ancient oaks, we created a sacred space surrounding them, where guests can relax, read a book, enjoy company or play a game of bocce. We adorned their limbs with vintage Moroccan lanterns to highlight their stunning branches even in the darkest of nights.

The lobby building was the original owner’s family home, built in 1952. We painted the dark wood-paneled walls & ceilings white, opened the layout with arches adorned by reclaimed corbels, and added skylights and large picture windows to bathe the space in beautiful natural light. We used rich textures like worn leather, natural hardwood floors, and Moroccan textiles to add warmth to an otherwise bright aesthetic and surrounded the original fireplace with shelves filled with books, games, and an eclectic collection of treasures and artworks sourced from my travels. 

The 26 guest rooms are of similar design as the common areas. Sophisticated, relaxing and curated with original art and objects. Most have fireplaces. Some even have soaking tubs. Similar to Skyview, we moved the traditional motel guest parking to an adjacent parking lot and replaced the parking spaces with front yards for each hotel room, lined by limestone walls, and adorned by hand-woven Bolivian hammocks and picnic tables.

Relaxation is the energy at the property. Ideally guests unwind amidst nature, with features like bonfire pits, a heated 21-and-over pool, and a rustic outdoor pavilion for starlit gatherings.

www.hotelynez.com