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History
Nestled in the canyons of Los Angeles, Hotel Bel-Air has been a hideaway for world travelers for almost 65 years. A visionary significant in the development of the area, Alphonso E. Bell created Bel-Air Estates in 1922. Bell acquired over 600 acres west of the city of Los Angeles, naming his new purchase "Bel-Air." Determined that the estates would become an exclusive and upscale neighborhood, he enhanced the surrounding area with new roads, utilities, a country club and lush, exotic vegetation.
What is now Hotel Bel-Air's main mission-style building was originally built as Bell's estate planning and sales offices. These offices were located next to the Bel-Air Stables where residents could board their horses and enjoy the miles of equestrian trails winding throughout the canyons.
For the next few decades Bell's dream flourished. In 1946 Joseph Drown, a hotel entrepreneur from Texas, purchased 18 acres and the land offices and began plans to create an elegant pastoral hotel hideaway. Drown immediately hired architect Burton Schutt to convert the buildings and construct the 62 rooms of what was to become Hotel Bel-Air. Drown transformed the grounds into lush, beautiful gardens, adding Swan Lake to the picturesque front lawn. He had a vision of creating a natural California oasis, planting palms, coastal redwoods, ficus trees and perennial blooms. Drown also closed the Bel-Air stables and built the sparkling oval-shaped pool at the site of the original riding ring.
Hotel Bel-Air quickly became a favorite of the rich and famous. Hollywood celebrities and world dignitaries were frequent guests at the young and glamorous retreat. Hotel Bel-Air attracted privacy seeking celebrities including Grace Kelly, Jackie Gleason, Cary Grant, and Marilyn Monroe.
Over the years, the hotel has developed into one of the most luxuriant and respected properties in the world. As the hotel and city have matured, Hotel Bel-Air's original ambiance has remained intact. The last extensive modern additions were completed with a full refurbishment in 2011.
The exclusivity and tranquility of Hotel Bel-Air appeals to the likes of Hollywood stars, entertainment executives, captains of industry and many other notables.
