LaValenciaHotel
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La Sala's The Cove
Decades of history at La Valencia are not lost as Peter45 indicates. I gratefully appreciate the comments of Matthew Lickona regarding similar changes at THE US GRANT – I was part of this historic properties massive renovation and re-branding and my 7 year tenure there was to ensure that the property was successful and more importantly relevant by infusing her unique past with a visionary future. Under new ownership extensive and necessary infrastructure work at La V has been completed including foundation work, plaster repair and new paint. The quaint elevator (another safely hazard) was rebuilt with efficiency in mind. A complete renovation of all 112 guest rooms was completed in April – this first time in 30 years that all rooms were addressed in one period. A new fitness center and business center were also unveiled this spring. Currently the entry colonnade (a late 1930’s addition) is being rebuilt as time and weather made this wood and plaster structure unsafe. A more elegant colonnade with a solid roof (vs. the fiberglass panels that leaked in the rains) will welcome guests later this summer. M. Monaghan, I have not meet you and you have not meet me – I would hope that before you post another erroneous message that you call and meet me at La Valencia so I can share more of our plans with you directly and so you have accurate and reliable information. As the steward of this great lady, I am dedicated to ensure her successful future and also defend her storied past. Respectfully, Mark Dibella - Managing Director - 858-551-3790— July 11, 2013 10:28 a.m.
La Sala's The Cove
The decision to close the Whaling Bar was not taken lightly. The room we dismantled this spring was actually the third version - a late 1980’s remodel. The original Wing Howard artwork of both the Whaling Bar and Café La Rue was appraised and then respectfully removed and stored at significant cost for safe keeping. The main mural, heavily damaged by years of neglect, smoke and moisture, was removed in 4 large pieces since it was painted directly on plaster affixed to plywood and attached to the center wall. Opening the center wall uncovered substantial termite damage and dry rot prompting needed structural rehabilitation. The floor of the bar was cracked and water damaged from issues stemming from old cast iron pipes. The fireplace flue inside the wall had apparently detached many years ago and we discovered that heat was dissipating directly into the walls and sub ceiling as we uncovered charred drywall and melted electrical and conduit lines – a significant safety hazard. The closing, although emotional, could not have come sooner for safety reasons alone. We are now installing structural steel support columns, replacing all pipes/plumbing and electrical and have even demolished most of the cement floor to pour a new foundation – we must ensure the room is sound. Physical conditions aside, the Whaling Bar as a business had been in decline for over a decade prior to ownership changes. The room was fortunate to have a loyal staff but their loyalty to the room was not enough to ensure loyal patronage (even of regulars) who were often enticed away by newer and fresher venues. Operating a novelty room that loses money is not an option in any business environment. The return of Café La Rue is a respectful nod to that restaurants great success in the 1940’s, 1950’s and 1960’s. The décor is inspired from the original Wing Howard art work depicting lively French village and country scenes in the art deco era. I have been personally working this with Harrison Howard, the artists son. A new central bar will occupy the footprint of the 3 former bars - we are adding a 500 bottle wine vault so our guests can take advantage of the hotels renowned wine inventory (currently hidden away 4 floor below). We will be taking advantage of the wonderful patio that adjoins the venue by opening up one of the 3 large arched window as a new entry and we will also add sidewalk seating to ensure that the Village ambiance is enhanced. The patio itself is receiving a large covered wood arbor that replicates the wood work of the tower wings early 10th floor sundeck.— July 11, 2013 10:28 a.m.
La Sala's The Cove
In primary response to M. Monaghan; Sir, I sincerely respect your passion for La Valencia however your criticism is misdirected and misinformed especially regarding the new ownership. As Managing Director of this regional icon, the history and legacy of La V is a key element in our renovation and business plans. You are obviously unaware of the monumental tasks at hand involving property infrastructure and decades of deferred maintenance – addressing these alone are essential to ensuing La Valencia remains an icon for generations. This enduring boutique hotel has not gained her notoriety by staying the same – it has done so because she has continued to change over the almost 9 decades of her existence. The Whaling Bar and its companion partner Café La Rue took the place of successful street front retail space which had endured for over 2 decades. The Skyroom was crafted from a 10th floor sundeck where guests has relaxed from 1928 (when the tower wing was opened) until the late 1950’s when a roof and windows were installed to accommodate 12 small tables. Our Verandah Ballroom was once the Calypso Room of the Cabrillo Hotel – this building was the original hotel of Prospect street and was acquired by La V in the 1950’s. Our Mediterranean Room was a rebranding in the 1970’s of the Surf Room in space originally designed as offices and tea rooms for the Los Apartementos de Sevilla, circa 1926 prior to the La Valencia name. The mezzanine Galleria Room was once the Library and the terrace off La Sala (a prime ocean view venue) only began service for dining in the 1990’s.— July 11, 2013 10:28 a.m.