The Mondrian Los Angeles is an international travel destination and local oasis nestled in the heart of West Hollywood’s iconic Sunset Strip. When entering through Mondrian’s signature 30-foot mahogany doors, you can expect to simultaneously feel wonder, excitement, invincibility, and glamour within its bright, expansive lobby. And you can also expect to see custom-designed furniture, a Lucite indoor swing, and a mushroom-inspired concierge desk within that very-memorable lobby.
Each of the hotel’s 236 (pet-friendly) rooms elicit adventure, mystery and magic with sleek and contemporary design, floor-to-ceiling windows, and soft hues of color juxtaposed with bold patterns. Remaining as the epicenter of innovation and creativity, the lobby’s “Magic Box” acts as a rotating art gallery showcasing Los Angeles-based contemporary pop-artists, including Tony Kelly, Michael Turchin, and Mikael B.
Known for its grandiose views, the hotel’s Skybar is a chic outdoor pool lounge perfect for soaking up the sun by day and dancing under the stars at night. A bustling hub for international and local trendsetters, Skybar hosts its exclusive Night Market with upscale vendors, intimate poolside performances, and daytime pool parties all summer featuring popular DJs from all around the globe. Ivory on Sunset offers Italian-inspired libations and cuisine with a backdrop of stunning L.A.-views. Mondrian is a luxury hotel brand operated by sbe with locations in London, New York, and Doha.
In September 2019, the Mondrian Los Angeles will debut its highly-anticipated $19-million-dollar hotel renovations. To learn more about this recent project, I had the pleasure of interviewing Norbert Relecker, the hotel’s General Manager. More on the Mondrian Los Angeles can be found online at www.mondrianlosangeles.com.
How did you wind up in the hospitality industry?
Norbert Relecker: The plan was to become a Electrical Engineer, coming from a German engineering family. A documentary of the Executive Chef of the Four Seasons in Hamburg changed it all. Apprenticeship, Hotel School and Management training with Hilton International set the pace.
How would you describe the Mondrian Hotel Los Angeles to someone not yet familiar?
Norbert Relecker: Mondrian Los Angeles captures everything the Sunset Strip stands for: excitement, invincibility and glamour. Following our $19 million renovation, we are introducing 236 newly-redesigned rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, luxuriously appointed marble bathrooms, and 24-hour room service.
Do you have a favorite amenity within the hotel?
Norbert Relecker: It’s impossible to pick just one! I love that our guests can live, work and socialize in the new lobby; solid food and beverage offerings from room service to the California/Italian fusion cuisine at Ivory on Sunset; and the diverse entertainment from day to night in Skybar.
What’s coming up for the Mondrian Hotel Los Angeles in the coming months? Any special packages or promotions?
Norbert Relecker: The upcoming introduction of our newly-renovated hotel to the public, the Taste of sbe event, and the annual Halloween activations in the famous Skybar.
Beyond your work with the Mondrian Hotel Los Angeles, I see that you are active with Visit West Hollywood. What is it that keeps you so loyal to the overall area?
Norbert Relecker: The hotel is part of the wonderful WeHO community, without a doubt, I always believe in representing our community and hotels to allow more visitors to learn about West Hollywood.
When not busy with the Mondrian Hotel Los Angeles or Visit West Hollywood, where does your free time usually go?
Norbert Relecker: We have two new dogs, Bear and Teddy, a lively addition to our household three month of Shepard mixes with tons of energy. Food and beverage events, new restaurants and cooking at home.
What was the last destination you went to for pleasure?
Norbert Relecker: Monterey, California — I still own a house in Monterey County.
Finally, Norbert, any last words for the kids?
Norbert Relecker: Use any opportunity to gain new knowledge, be adventurous and enjoy life.
