Building Dreams in Beverly Hills, a private tour curated exclusively for guests of The Beverly Hills Hotel, explores the exciting combination of Hollywood storytelling and architectural vision present in the buildings of Beverly Hills. Inspired by the hotel’s legendary architect Paul R. Williams, this expert-led architecture tour showcases the city’s glamorous history and fascinating mystique while transporting guests on a journey into Beverly Hills to discover its captivating architectural story.
As the newest addition to Dorchester Collection’s Legendary Artist trails series, this new tour focuses on legendary architecture and was inspired by architect-to-the stars Paul R. Williams who was the perfect choice to design the hotel’s expansion in the 1940’s. Adding many of its distinctive features including the grand entrance, Crescent Wing, Polo Lounge, Fountain Coffee Room, and poolside cabanas, Williams designed the magnificent architectural details that make the hotel one of the most iconic locations in Beverly Hills.
The adventure begins at The Beverly Hills Hotel, as guests are driven into the city to discover Williams’ romantic exploration of style and inventive use of colour and detail which helped set the standard for the architectural landscape of Hollywood. Guests will discover Williams’ expressively stylish houses, the old Music Corporation of America building, the designer boutiques of Rodeo Drive, and the various architectural styles of Beverly Hills with the Renzo Piano’s Academy Museum.
With lively dialogue in the company of an architecture expert guide, guests will enjoy the stories and structures of Beverly Hills and uncover hidden details peppered with colourful anecdotes that even locals might overlook. What’s more, each itinerary can be adapted to cater to both intrepid explorers who wish to refine their knowledge and novices who may have visited but never delved deeper.
“Building on the excitement of Dorchester Collection’s Legendary Artists trails, we are delighted to announce this new chapter in the series which will allow guests to discover Beverly Hills through a brand new, fascinating lens of architecture and design,” says John Scanlon, General Manager of The Beverly Hills Hotel. “We were inspired by Paul R. Williams’ struggle and success in making his indelible mark on Hollywood architecture at our beloved ‘Pink Palace’ as well as beyond our front door, including homes for celebrity royalty such as Lucille Ball, Cary Grant and Frank Sinatra. With art and culture playing an integral part of all Dorchester Collection hotels, this wonderfully unique experience gives our guests the chance to get to know the very fabric of Beverly Hills,” he adds.
The new Building Dreams in Beverly Hills package is based on double occupancy and includes an overnight stay in a junior suite, a three-hour expert guided tour in a chauffeured car, and daily breakfast. Guests can also choose to reserve the historic Paul R. Williams Suite, which commemoratesthe legendary architect. From its bespoke curved bar and retro detailing to its cool mid-century vibe, it is utterly unique with a timeless style that’s remained unchanged since it was built in 1948. Hotel guests who have not reserved the package may still experience the tour for an additional charge. Five-day advance notice is required to reserve the tour and cancellation fees apply.
Dorchester Collection’s Legendary Artists series includes six bespoke expert-led walking tours in four international cities, all following in the footsteps of renowned artists that have left a lasting impact on these cities and the art world itself: Picasso, Monet, and Rodin in Paris, Barbara Hepworth in London, Lucio Fontana in Milan, and Caravaggio in Rome. Eyes on the Future in Dubai and Building Dreams in Beverly Hills are the newest additions to this arts initiative which invites guests to immerse themselves in the creative legacies and vibrant works of some of the world’s most influential artists and architects.
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