Location: Encinitas, California, United States 

Architect: Joseph Wong Design Associates 

Interior Designer: Mark Zeff (Principle), Stacie Meador (Director of Interior Design), Francesca McCulloch (Project Architect) 

Hotel Group: Hyatt/JMI Realty 

Photographer: Eric Laignel 

The Alila hotel is a new construction operated by Hyatt, located in Encinitas, California. There is an on-site spa, restaurant, coffee shop, lounge, lobby and 130 guestrooms. The hotel is situated directly on the Pacific Ocean and the entire architecture is integrated into the bluff so that it is seamlessly intertwined into its stunning surroundings. 

Nature and all things organic were the inspiration for this project, from the large-scale pattern on the lobby floor, the monumental staircase, the hand carved reception desk, to the smallest wrapped natural rope detail on the guest room chairs. This part of the country is especially rough and beautiful with the powerful Pacific Ocean and wild coastline that all inspired the interior design. The energy, the colours of the ocean and dunes all fed into the decisions made about finishes, furniture, and palettes throughout the hotel. A few of MARKZEFF’s favourite design elements are the custom patterned concrete floor in the lobby that was inspired by organic shapes in the ocean and the custom carpet pattern in the ballroom that was inspired by the giant kelp forests. Guests may not initially notice either interpretation at first glance as these patterns are done in a large scale but, as you look closer, it becomes clear and is a beautiful surprise. 

The design integrates the natural surroundings into the interiors by use of authentic materials and tones found in the environment. The custom front desk was carved out of a large single piece of wood by woodworkers along with several custom wood carved coffee tables. The walls of the pocket pool bar were made by utilizing a technique used to make surfboards and the panels where then adhered to the walls.