Shutters on the Beach, the quintessential arbiter of coastal California chic, proudly unveils its newly reimagined lobby, an inspired transformation led by acclaimed Los Angeles-based design studio Nickey Kehoe. The sophisticated design elevates the guest experience while preserving Shutters’ signature seaside charm, seamlessly blending contemporary refinement with timeless elegance. Arriving at a pivotal moment—amid Santa Monica’s 150th anniversary and the aftermath of recent Southern California fires—the revitalization of the Lobby, or aptly-named “Living Room,” underscores Shutters’ enduring legacy and renewed commitment to heritage, hospitality, and connection.
A Vision of Coastal Sophistication
Set along the captivating Santa Monica coastline, Nickey Kehoe’s signature blend of elegance and relaxed luxury guided the redesign of the living room. The transformation breathes new life into the space while preserving its intimate atmosphere and inviting essence. The vision was to expand the sense of space, crafting a bright, fresh, airy ambiance that seamlessly merges the classic interiors with seaside living while staying true to the property’s New England beach house charm and color palette.
"We aimed to pay tribute to Shutters' rich history while infusing the space with a renewed, sophisticated energy, achieved through the careful interplay of light, saturation, and texture," said Amy Kehoe, Co-Founder of Nickey Kehoe. "The result is a luxurious retreat that embraces the property’s oceanfront setting, with a timeless design that creates a welcoming space for guests to gather, unwind, and truly feel at home.”
The reconceptualized seating layout anchors the space, encouraging guest interaction. Refined custom banquettes and cocktail tables by Nickey Kehoe are nestled against glossy cream walls. Rope-inspired light fixtures and cordage sconces by Tisserant frame a series of thoughtfully arranged chairs and couch vignettes, inviting groups of all sizes to gather near the repositioned reception area. Among these, guests will find unique barrel-style faux tortoise-shell chairs by Erika Brunson for Dessin Fournir and Bergère chairs by Soane, inspired by an early 20th-century design by Syrie Maugham. The serene palette of ivory and cerulean blues reflects the ocean’s natural hues. Louvered screens create a refined arrival experience, guiding guests through check-in while preserving the flow of the living space, and mirrored accents amplify natural light, capturing the bright essence of Santa Monica. Rich mahogany accents evoke a subtle maritime spirit, while intricate woven blue and cream textiles by Pierre Frey, rope-wrapped Duclo Arm Chairs by Christian Astuguevieille, and elegant brass pendants from Soane add dimensions of understated luxury. Carefully selected performance fabrics ensure durability in both indoor and outdoor settings, striking a perfect balance between functionality and beauty.
A Celebration of Art & Creativity
Home to a blue-chip modern art collection curated by Cynthia Greenwald, Shutters on the Beach tapped the renowned fine art advisor to acquire three new works for the transformed space. A sizable, commissioned Sky Over Water by Los Angeles-based artist Grant Levy-Lucero brings his signature Pop Art-inspired vibrancy above the reception desk. At the same time, Quiet Moon by Ann Craven, known for her luminous brushstrokes, lends a sense of tranquility. Rounding out the collection is LA Uncovered #5 by Robert Rauschenberg, a striking screenprint that captures the layered energy of Los Angeles through his iconic mixed-media style. These new acquisitions join an impressive roster of existing works, such as David Hockney's Blue Hang Cliff; Ellsworth Kelly’s botanical-inspired prints—Cyclamen II, Cyclamen IV, and Camellia III; and Alex Katz’s Coca Cola Girl 1.
An Enhanced Guest Journey
The enhanced guest experience goes beyond renovation aesthetics focusing on connection, relaxation, and indulgence. The return of the property’s signature porte cochère welcomes guests to the seaside retreat, while the REVAMPED concierge desk offers guests a private space to curate personalized itineraries. Meanwhile, the 'NOTEworthy' program introduces rotating experiences in the Living Room—such as exclusive tastings and wine dinners, live sunset music, exciting activations, and an enhanced craft cocktail menu—further enhancing the warmth and hospitality that Shutters is known for.
"The newly transformed Living Room ushers in an exciting new chapter for both Shutters on the Beach and the Santa Monica community," said Christophe Baraton, General Manager. "As the heart of our hotel, this space has always been central to our guest experience. The ingenious design seamlessly combines comfort, style, and functionality. Whether guests gather with loved ones, celebrate milestones, or simply unwind, this transformation honors our legacy while paving the way for new, memorable experiences."
Honoring Legacy in a Milestone Year
As Santa Monica celebrates its 150th anniversary in Summer 2025, Shutters on the Beach remains a cherished cornerstone of the beachside city. For over three decades, the hotel—and its iconic Living Room—has been a gathering place for locals and visitors, offering a sense of belonging. Most recently, it served as a refuge for those displaced by the California wildfires. From families reconnecting with loved ones to supporting neighbors and ensuring the comfort of beloved pets, the space’s significance was undeniable—a sanctuary of comfort and togetherness. In keeping with its deep-rooted commitment to the community, furniture replaced during the renovation has been pledged through Santa MoniCARES for those affected. The newly redesigned Living Room marks an exciting new chapter for the hotel and the region, where evolution and growth set the stage for the next chapter of Southern California.
