Hotel Review: Andaz West Hollywood
Ready for my first stay at Andaz West Hollywood, I pulled my rental car off busy Sunset Boulevard right up to the front of the hotel entrance. I didn’t see any self parking (turns out they don’t have any) so I left my keys with valet. It took a few minutes for the valet to come over, since it was a Friday evening.
The location of the Andaz is great, across the street from a House of Blues, close to Beverly Hills, placed on Sunset Strip, and next door to a Comedy store.
Just inside, the lobby looked modern and hip. After taking a few steps, someone from the check-in staff made eye contact with me and sailed over to greet. In Andaz style, there wasn’t a check-in counter per se, just employes walking around in casual wear so they blend in with the guests. This adds to a less formal feel.
After a quick check-in, the employee mentioned that free drinks would be offered later in this area if I was interested.
I headed up to my corner King Suite, room 905.
Corner suites are great, one reason being that the layout of the room won’t usually have your bedroom right up next to someone else’s bedroom. That equals a quieter stay.
The suite had an airy, modern layout. At 800 square feet it felt open, large, and looked spotless. I noted that the room included some fun bar stools by Harry Bertoia, an Italian-born artist.
There was a large work area, and flat screen TV.
One of my favorite touches in the room was Eero Aarnio’s art puppy. Made of plastic, I couldn’t resist lifting it up for a better look, and found it was surprisingly heavy.
Alcohol and glasses were laid out on the table, for those who might want some refreshment.
The chandelier by Cellula added a gorgeous glow to the room with its gently swaying Swarovski crystals. Because the crystals were suspended by clear threads they appeared to be floating. I couldn’t resist brushing my hand against them and then watching the lights dance their reflections on the ceiling and walls.
There was an ample seating area that even had a magazine rack, and records hung on the wall as art.
There were also a few records in the room to play. In the mood for a groovy party? You’re all set with these tracks.
A minibar was stocked with complimentary non-alcoholic drinks and a few alcoholic ones for purchase.
There were complimentary snacks too, which was a good thing because I was really hungry after checking-in. I even ate one of the snacks before this photo was taken. Notice the empty space?
The views of the Sunset Strip and Los Angeles were captivating. Here’s one at nighttime.
And daytime.
There was a TV on the wall, but with the view it didn’t get turned on at all.
This corner was my favorite spot to lounge in.
The bedroom also had a window along the whole wall, even though this pic shows just part.
There was a sitting area in the corner, and a picture was actually stenciled on the wall. A similar one was in the living room.
More artwork, propped up against the wall.
A mirrored headboard and red Geneva bedside alarm/stereo/iPod dock completed the modern look. And what a comfortable bed it was!
Another Geneva sound system was found in the living room.
A creative touch was a pencil, eraser, and sharpener.
I was pleased to note that there were two sets of slippers and two bathrobes in the closet. Many times, I’ll find that even though two of us are staying in the room only one set is there, and I’ll have to ring down to request a second set from housekeeping.
The bathroom had a walk in shower, with one of those half door enclosures. Although there was a raised platform for perching a foot during shaving, I think the shower was my least favorite part of the suite, since I like to splash about and not end up with water…everywhere in the room.
The bathroom featured local amenities from Pharmacopia, an organic line. There were also little toiletries like Q-tips and cotton bits, and an expansive sink area.
Overall, I thought this hotel was great. Because I was in town for work I didn’t get to spend as much time in the room as I would have liked. The complimentary snacks and drinks were a nice touch, the wifi was quick, and the whimsical art added to the creative feel of the suite. The hotel also had a rooftop pool and lounge area, and a fitness center. Â I would absolutely stay at this hotel again in the future.
Hyatt Category 5. 20,000 Hyatt Gold Passport points or 10,000 + $125 Â for a free night.
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