Historic San Diego bungalows get a “Beachside Bohemian” overhaul by The Novogratz
At Sonder, we believe design is at the heart of good hospitality. We obsess over it. It’s why no two Sonders are exactly the same, and each is customized to reflect the vibe of its neighborhood. Every stay should be a continuation of the traveler’s journey; it’s not enough for a room to have a view, it should also have a point of view.
That’s why we couldn’t be more excited to announce Sonder’s first design collaboration: a set of laid-back bungalows in San Diego’s Little Italy brought to life by celebrity design duo Cortney and Bob Novogratz.
It’s the details that make a space both beautiful and functional— everything from the furniture, to the lighting, to the thoughtful items that enhance a visitor’s sense of discovery. These retro spaces in one of San Diego’s hottest neighborhoods are filled with custom art and objects inspired by San Diego’s surf scene. Binoculars, floatation devices, and a copy of Peter Benchley’s Jaws all come standard
Looking to chill for a few hours after hitting the beach? Sink into a custom sofa with a book on meditation, or Beachside Bohemian design (all Novogratz originals).
Having friends over for drinks before a night out in the Gaslamp? No problem. The kitchen, complete with rugs shaped like oversized limes and avocados, is already stocked?—?just throw a classic record on the turntable and you’re set.
Whether you’re sipping coffee on the patio, or crashing head-first into bed, Novogratz’s trademark “vintage modern” touches?—?peace signs, Warhol prints, and black and white photos?—?keep the journey going.”
“Good design should also be accessible?—?this collaboration speaks to everything we work to create in our spaces, an eclectic combination that results in an unexpected look for our guests to discover,” said Ashley Redmond who heads up Sonder’s global team of interior designers and leads the creative direction of the spaces. “It was an honor working with The Novogratz to bring these spaces to life. I can’t imagine a better team to help celebrate our first design partnership.”
“Having designed several boutique hotels, it’s important to make the space feel welcoming and known for a first-time guest,” said Bob Novogratz in describing his unique approach to hospitality spaces. “Designing for a permanent home versus a short-term stay is different…the design must be intuitive and inclusive because anyone could be a guest. An easy way to achieve this is to design a clutter-free and balanced environment. With Sonder, this intuitive journey starts before a guest sees the physical space. Sonder builds a hospitable, intuitive comfort level through a professional digital experience that is carried through to the physical spaces. The design should be the exclamation point when a guest walks through a door.”
Built in 1926 and restored by San Diego architect Jonathan Segal in 2017, these airy studio bungalows are registered historic landmarks. Each features hardwood floors, french doors and private patios situated between the towering high rises of Little Italy. Walking distance from local shops, restaurants and all that downtown has to offer, there’s no better place to land for a weekend escape in America’s Finest City.
