From new hotels and residences to significant design milestones, architect Gulla Jonsdottir’s (gullajonsdottir.com) unique vision is transforming Los Angeles and beyond.

PHOTO BY MAGNUS UNNAR

Congrats on The Sandbourne hotel in Santa Monica! Tell us all about it. The palette echoes the natural tones of the sand and sea, with accents that reflect the vibrant hues to reflect the vivacity of city life. When guests enter the hotel, it is as though they are embarking upon a journey to an urban oasis, where tranquility unfolds with a relaxed and sensuous grace.

The West Hollywood Design District celebrates a milestone this year. As a board member, how do you think this area stands out? It celebrates 75 years of design in 2024. Pioneering with the original Herman Miller showroom designed by Charles and Ray Eames, it is home today to one of my favorite showrooms, Baxter and Edra of DIVA Group. I love walking to Mass Beverly and Minotti, Lualdi and the Kimpton La Peer Hotel, my first hotel project in the district and the location of my first studio.

What do you look to for inspiration? I have an artistic curiosity and a commitment to questioning the status quo by pushing the boundaries of architecture and interior design. I’m inspired by nature, my travels, museums and art fairs around the world.

Lastly, what are you currently working on? My team and I have exciting projects opening soon, including the Thompson Hotel in Miami Beach; Alloy, a large residential tower in the Arts District of DTLA, for Kimpton hotels flagship in the Middle East; and a wonderful new resort project for 1 Hotels, in Crete.