IRVINE, CA—After an extensive transformation, Hotel Irvine has opened here.
“As an independent brand, our innovative approach provides us with the unique opportunity to reinvent the concept of a lifestyle hotel without the constraints of a brand or chain,” stated Ralph Grippo, president of Irvine Company Resort Properties. “Our role has always and continues to be to break new ground. The concept of lifestyle hotels has been around in places like Los Angeles, Chicago, New York and San Francisco, but it is new for the city of Irvine.”
The hotel has a new, 16,000-sq.-ft. dining and entertainment hub, including Eats Kitchen & Bar, a bar lounge called Red Bar and a Marketplace. The Eats Kitchen & Bar menu features American classics with a comfort food/gastro pub approach, created by Chef Jason Montelibano. Red Bar offers lounge furniture, WiFi connectivity and communal areas, including long sofas and small group seating. According to the hotel, Red Bar is a focal point of the newly renovated lobby, with a jewel box of cut glass and bright colors and frosted red bar top. The adjacent TV lounge, with its multi screen, will televise sporting events, and the adjacent outdoor deck will offer live music and weekend DJs.
As part of the overall transformation of the hotel, all 536 rooms and suites have been completely renovated. According to the hotel, the decor is subtle, sleek and modern, with bright color accents. Each room has wireless bluetooth connections, as well as games and magazines.
Also new are a number of amenities for every guest who stays, with no extra charge, including WiFi access, Chef’s Everyday Breakfast, 24-hour food service room delivery, transportation to and from John Wayne Airport, health and fitness activities and complimentary water in the guestroom.
Coming in January are technology advancements in the meeting spaces and a theater outfitted with a high-tech interactive wall and updated work stations. The hotel’s backyard will feature a new, 6,000-sq.-ft. pavilion; an 8,000-sq.-ft. lawn; an upgraded pool & wet bar; and a cabana room.