Carmel Mission Inn — Photo by Carmel Mission Inn

Carmel Mission Inn, a stylish boutique hotel located in the idyllic seaside community of Carmel, just minutes from Carmel Village and the city of Monterey has completed a multi-million-dollar, full-scale renovation. A refresh of the charming, coastal property included a revamp of the lobby and public areas, 7,000 square feet o f flexible meeting and events space, pool and courtyard and opening of Shearwater Tavern, the hotel's new California pub. The project completion falls on the heels of a 2020 revitalization of each of the property's 165 guestrooms and suites.

Coastal-Inspired, Mid-Century Modern Design
The overall aesthetic, imagined by Oakland-based Arcsine, features a coastal palette that evokes guests' recent travels on the winding California coastline—comprised of sandy beaches, rocky coast ranges, majestic Monterey pines, and sparkling blue sea. Particular emphasis was placed on distinctive yet natural local materials including chevron wood floors, hand-crafted tiles, shiplap detailing, and the use of caning to create a cottage-like feeling reminiscent of the storybook setting found in downtown Carmel.

The entry courtyard provides a lively, playful outdoor setting showcasing bespoke sectionals and benches where people can enjoy the warmth of the strategical ly placed fire pits year-round. Custom outdoor light fixtures and Ethimo lanterns add a luminescent glow when the sun goes down, and a floor mosaic greets guests and acts as a permanent area rug, adding an unexpected and personal touch to the lobby. Wooden reception desks with woven inserts and a moss wall created by Planted Design connect the interiors to the outdoors. Shiplap detailing establishes warmth and frames the all-white monochromatic shelving and painted stone fireplace, which acts as a blank canvas to the carefully selected eclectic mix of furniture, patterns, and textures found throughout the lounge.

In addition to Arscine's revamp of the property's common areas, Carmel Mission Inn also features 165 previously renovated guestrooms and family suites. The interiors reflect an updated contemporary feel juxtaposed against the addition of whimsical mid-century modern design elements. Each guestroom features a color palette comprised of earth tones includ ing espresso and grays, enhanced with pops of burnt orange and light blue. Each room features new wood laminate flooring, new furnishings, wall coverings and lighting. Closets were outfitted with functional shelving and bathrooms were revamped with contemporary lighting, fixtures and wall treatments. Additional enhancements include a renovated fitness center, fitted with state-of-the-art equipment including Peloton bicycles, and a newly refurbished outdoor pool and spa.

Eat + Drink + Socialize
Carmel Mission Inn's renovation also included the opening of Shearwater Tavern, a newly concepted 88-seat California pub. Arcine's dOcesign features include a retro 1970s-inspired host stand and entry featuring custom millwork and a record player welcoming guests to the new space. The main dining room features a classic geometric tile flooring, and heavy-set natural walnut beams, while a retractable clouded glass door allows for a more intimate private dining experie nce for small gatherings. A custom brass light fixture serves as the centerpiece of the adjacent lounge area, illuminating the Crossville Cava Nero Greco top counter and upholstered leather-like chairs resting on the unique mosaic floor pattern delineating the bar.

In addition to the all-new design, the property has tapped Chef Wayne Brooks, former proprietor of Texas' 827Rays Kitchen + Cellar, and Los Angeles-based New School restaurant consultants to concept and create a Tavern menu of whimsical small plates and larger plates featuring quality food, simply presented. Menu highlights include hearty breakfast offerings and unique takes on healthy California fare including Avocado Toast, with hot smoked salmon, six-minute egg, celery leaf salad, lime salt, and grilled seeded local bread; Braised Short Rib Skillet with seasonal local roasted vegetables, soft poached eggs, grilled local bread; and Overnight Oats with almond milk, seasonal berries, toasted pecans, g olden raisins, cinnamon, nutmeg, and Carmel honey. A simple and approachable Dinner menu, served from 4 pm - 10 pm Tuesday through Saturday, features small plates including a selection of California Cheeses & Artisan Cured Meats, Crispy Calamari and House made Shearwater Tots; and large plates include a Dry Aged Tavern Burger with aged cheddar, grilled onions, butter lettuce, pickles, Dijon mustard spread, and toasted brioche bun; Grilled Pacific Salmon served with black lentils, roasted vegetables, romesco; and Classic Steak Frites, with a prime flat iron and herb garlic butter. Guests can also enjoy a selection of hand-crafted cocktails, regional wines and craft beers.

Hotel website