Drift makes West Coast debut in Santa Barbara
Drift Hotels has made its West Coast debut with an opening in the heart of Santa Barbara. The traditional 1920s building has been restored and reimagined into a 45-key boutique hotel that draws on the spirit of the region.
Designed in partnership with local architecture firm Anacapa, the property’s modern and minimalist interior complements and contrasts with the carefully preserved traditional Mediterranean architectural bones. Upon entry, a bold, minimalist aesthetic creates a relaxed ambiance reminiscent of the Drift brand’s San José del Cabo roots, while paying homage to California’s coastal vibe. The juxtaposition of old and new is striking, with suspended floor joists salvaged from the original structure featured on the first floor, as well as in the Penthouse Suite.
Throughout the hotel, floor-to-ceiling windows embrace natural light, uniting interior and exterior and breathing life into design details made from materials including oak, concrete and brass. Local touches such as artwork by Will Adler and Anacapa Ceramics further tie the property to Santa Barbara. Drift Santa Barbara’s guestrooms meanwhile feature neutral hues and custom handmade millwork. The Penthouse Suite is outfitted with an outdoor lounge and fire pit, while balconies are offered in both the Premium City View guestroom and the Penthouse Suite. Each offers room amenities including custom-scented bath products with notes of desert marigold and sandalwood.
The first floor of the hotel is home to two eateries, Dawn and Dusk. Bright and airy, Dawn’s warm textiles, natural wood and calming white walls craft a light space inspired by Southern California and its surf culture. In contrast, Dusk is a moody Baja-inspired agave and raw bar ensconced in dark steel and raw wood. Both Dawn and Dusk extend into State Street’s promenade, with communal tables that invite both guests and locals in.
“Drift is a unique hotel experience geared toward bringing travellers and the community together,” says Philip Bates, co-founder and CEO of TMC Hospitality. “The Santa Barbara locale will be a harmonious addition to the energetic State Street.”
The Santa Barbara site will be the first US property to open under TMC Hospitality’s Drift Hotels brand, following Drift San José del Cabo’s November 2021 opening. Drift Palm Springs is also set to arrive in early 2023, followed by Drift Nashville soon after.
