When it opened in 1926, Hotel Figueroa was one of the only businesses in the country created by and for women (and managed by a motorcycle-riding feminist). The visionary ladies behind this project, a group of YWCA members, had a simple yet groundbreaking mission: to build safe and luxurious accommodations for the growing number of solo female travelers who arrived in Los Angeles. After securing a hefty bank loan, they commissioned a hacienda-style building with ample public spaces to foster conversational exchanges and informal business meetings, thus encouraging women in their professional pursuits. Nearly a century later, the hotel unveiled a top-to-bottom renovation honoring its unique history. The process involved peeling layers of haphazard decorations that were added throughout the years—in the 70s, a new owner went with a Moroccan theme—and working with a social anthropologist to gather old photographs and newspaper clippings. It was hard but rewarding work that revealed the original Spanish Colonial splendor of the property, mixed with contemporary touches to celebrate the modern spirit of its downtown surroundings. At the core of the re-imagined Hotel Figueroa is a museum-quality art collection and an ever-evolving series of exhibits, talks and events featuring local women artists.
Like it did in the 1920s, Hotel Figueroa strives to be a hub for social progress and creativity in Downtown Los Angeles.
Above an imposing fireplace in the Gran Sala, a 2,100-square-foot living room with towering arched windows and ironwork chandeliers, hangs a black-and-white photograph of the hotel’s founding women wearing flapper dresses and finger-wave hairstyles. It was 1926, and they were posing regally in front of an arched hallway. This is just one of the pieces on display that pays tribute to these iconoclastic ladies. Right by the entrance, visitors are greeted by a large-scale red painting by Alison van Pelt depicting Maude Bouldin, a feminist who raced motorcycles, flew planes, and helped launch the property as its first manager. Elsewhere, the hotel is filled with artworks by some of L.A.’s most compelling female artists—everything from sculptures to lighting installations and murals by both emerging and internationally celebrated talents. There’s a striking oil on canvas by Jesse Mockrin, who nods to 18th century Rococo in her contemporary portraits, and a bold nude by America Martin, known for her abstract depictions of the human form. This important—and growing—permanent collection is supplemented by rotating exhibitions and a variety of creative events like artist talks and playlists created by local DJs like Maryann Aguirre (who’s part of an all-girl, all-vinyl DJ club created by women of color). Like it did in the 1920s, Hotel Figueroa strives to be a hub for social progress and creativity in Downtown Los Angeles.
To learn more about Hotel Figueroa, please contact the concierge upon making a reservation.
