DESTINATION – LOS ANGELES SERIES 4/8 - FROM GLAMOUR TO GRANDEUR: THE REMARKABLE REBIRTH OF THE FAIRMONT CENTURY PLAZA (United States)
Blending Hollywood heritage with contemporary sophistication, this legendary hotel has been entirely reimagined—preserving its soul while unveiling a new era of luxury from the inside out.
DESTINATION – LOS ANGELES SERIES 4/8 - FROM GLAMOUR TO GRANDEUR: THE REMARKABLE REBIRTH OF THE FAIRMONT CENTURY PLAZA (United States)
Blending Hollywood heritage with contemporary sophistication, this legendary hotel has been entirely reimagined—preserving its soul while unveiling a new era of luxury from the inside out.
From the moment you step into the grand lobby of the Fairmont Century Plaza, you can feel the weight of history balanced beautifully with modern luxury. This legendary hotel, once a beacon of Hollywood’s golden age, has been reimagined for the 21st century, yet it still carries the soul of its storied past.
Spanning over 60 years of history
Century City may be undergoing transformation, but its history remains key to understanding its evolution. Originally a private ranch owned by Western actor Tom Mix in the early 1900s, the land was sold to 20th Century Fox Studios in the 1920s and used as a vast backlot. After a series of box office flops, including Cleopatra, the studio sold much of the land in the 1950s, paving the way for the creation of Century City as a modern urban hub with walkable streets, retail, and entertainment. At its core stood the Century Plaza Hotel, a symbol of contemporary luxury.
When it opened in 1966, the Century Plaza Hotel was a technological marvel, featuring colour televisions in every room. Designed by Minoru Yamasaki, the Japanese-American architect behind the original World Trade Centre, its signature curved facade became a city landmark. The hotel quickly gained recognition hosting major events like the Grammy Award and the Emmy Awards. In 1969, it hosted the Dinner of the Century, the first presidential state dinner held outside the White House, celebrating the return of the Apollo 11 astronauts from the moon.
As I walked through the space with Daniel Harpaz, the Director of Public Relations, I couldn't help but appreciate how the design pays homage to its mid-century roots while embracing contemporary sophistication. The warm glow of the lighting, plush seating, and gold and marble accents create an atmosphere that is both inviting and opulent. It was easy to imagine the countless personalities who had graced these halls over the decades.
A $2.5 billion renovation
The transformation of the Fairmont Century Plaza is nothing short of extraordinary. A staggering $2.5 billion renovation, spanning from 2016 to 2021, has redefined the space while preserving its historic essence. In a bold yet respectful approach, the developers retained the iconic curved facade, an architectural hallmark, while completely reimagining the interiors. The result is a masterful blend of past and present. The renovations reduced the hotel’s 720 rooms to 400, with a focus on repositioning it in the luxury market.
Daniel guided me through the hotel, sharing insights into its remarkable restoration. Every inch of the hotel has been thoughtfully redesigned to cater to today’s luxury traveller, from the grand entrance to the meticulously styled guest rooms and suites. The furniture itself tells a story—each piece in Lumière, the hotel’s signature French brasserie, was carefully selected, with items sourced directly from France, ensuring authenticity and character. The attention to detail extends to every fixture and finish, creating an ambiance that is as rich in history as it is in comfort.
The lobby, surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows that can all be opened, blurs the lines between the outdoor and indoor spaces, creating an open-air ambiance. In the centre of the lobby, the marble bar, with its warm lighting, is situated between the grand piano, accessible to guests, and vertical gardens, including one accompanied by a waterfall.
Fairmont Gold
One of the most impressive aspects of the hotel is the Fairmont Gold experience—an exclusive offering that redefines personalised luxury. This elevated tier of hospitality grants guests access to a private lounge where they can unwind in a serene, stylish setting while enjoying gourmet refreshments throughout the day. There are also two floors, with a total of 71 guest rooms, dedicated to Fairmont Gold. The dedicated Fairmont Gold team provides personalised concierge service, ensuring that every detail of a guest’s stay is tailored to their preferences. From priority check-in to bespoke amenities, the experience is designed for those who seek seamless comfort and an enhanced level of privacy. As Daniel described Fairmont Gold, it became clear that this is more than just an upgraded accommodation—it's a meticulously curated experience that caters to discerning travellers looking for exclusivity and sophistication.
Lumière: French elegance through furniture and scents
As we made our way to Lumière, the restaurant exuded Parisian charm with its chic décor, warm lighting, and carefully sourced furnishings. Each piece of furniture, from the 100-year-old doors to the hostess stand in use for over 140 years, was hand-selected from antique stores in France. You could see the dedication to culinary excellence in every dish that passed by. The open kitchen, the scent of freshly baked bread, and the elegant plating all hinted at an exceptional dining experience—one that marries authenticity with a refined modern touch.
The Fairmont Spa
Another highlight of my visit was the 14,000 sqft spa—a sanctuary of tranquillity hidden within the hotel. The Fairmont Spa is an oasis of calm, offering an array of treatments designed to rejuvenate both body and mind. With an emphasis on wellness, the spa features state-of-the-art facilities, including steam rooms, saunas, and a relaxation lounge, all designed to promote relaxation and renewal. The spa utilises cutting-edge technology, including LED light therapy and cryotherapy. Daniel spoke passionately about the spa’s holistic approach, which combines innovative therapies with natural elements to create a truly restorative experience. Guests can indulge in signature treatments, including deep-tissue massages infused with aromatherapy, high-performance facials using advanced skincare techniques, and personalized wellness programs tailored to individual needs.
Their star treatment: Biohacking. Their Biohacking Treatment is a wellness experience designed to promote deep relaxation and cellular restoration. Combining an anti-gravity bed, Magnetic Field Therapy, lymphatic drainage boots, and a NuCalm Disc to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, the treatment culminates in a Binaural Meditation Journey that enhances relaxation, focus, and overall well-being.
Adjacent to the spa is the renowned Salon by Cristophe, a haven for those seeking world-class hair and beauty services. The salon offers expert styling, colour treatments, and premium hair care, ensuring that every guest leaves feeling their absolute best. The seamless integration of spa and salon services enables visitors to indulge in a comprehensive range of self-care and relaxation, making the Fairmont Century Plaza a true destination for wellness and beauty.
The rooftop pool
Beyond its luxurious wellness offerings, the hotel boasts a rooftop pool—an urban retreat that offers breathtaking views of the Los Angeles skyline. On a clear day, guests can gaze out all the way to Santa Monica. Whether lounging poolside with a cocktail in hand or taking a refreshing swim, the rooftop provides an unparalleled vantage point to soak in the beauty of Southern California.
The Fairmont Century Plaza: A legacy
Beyond its luxurious accommodations and world-class amenities, what truly sets the Fairmont Century Plaza apart is its ability to bridge the past and present seamlessly. The property not only honours its legacy but also looks ahead, ensuring that it remains a benchmark for luxury hospitality in Los Angeles.
The Fairmont Century Plaza is more than just a hotel—it is a piece of living history and a testament to timeless elegance. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning guest, the magic of this place is undeniable, leaving you with memories that linger long after you’ve walked out the door.
The hotel's commitment to hospitality extends beyond human guests—it also warmly welcomes four-legged companions with its pet-forward approach, ensuring that even furry travellers enjoy a luxurious stay with tailored amenities and thoughtful services.
We were present at the hotels in our Los Angeles series in October 2024 and delayed the publications to Spring due to the fires, we hope none of the team members were severely impacted by them.
Asia, a recent University of Birmingham graduate with a degree in Creative Writing and Marketing, was introduced to the world of luxury hospitality through her parents' careers as seasoned journalists. Growing up, she learned the ins and outs of the industry by observing their work and experiences. This unique perspective fueled her passion for writing and her appreciation for upscale accommodations. With her academic background and rich upbringing, Asia is poised to craft vivid narratives that capture the elegance and allure of luxury hospitality.
