architecture studio , Gehry Partners .
“ I felt a huge responsibility ,” says Tara Bernerd , founder of Tara Bernerd and Partners , “ but I couldn ’ t let that overshadow the great joy of working on such a building . We made decisions that would feel sincere and appropriate for Gehry ’ s design and speak to the local community . It means so much that he feels it is a success .”
With their staccato rhythm , The Grand LA ’ s two skyscrapers create a jazzy dialogue with the curvaceous fluidity of the Walt Disney Concert Hall . Bernerd ’ s interiors reflect and enhance this conversation . Staggered dropped ceilings and features with varying heights bring intimacy to spaces that could potentially feel cavernous , subtly zoning them and directing guests ’ attention towards desired views .
The five restaurants helmed by award-winning chef and humanitarian José Andrés illustrate the effect , including the 10th-floor venues San Laurel , which overlooks the concert hall , and Agua Viva , which enjoys panoramic city scenes , along with The Beaudry Room , where Bernerd ’ s favorite seat at the cognac-colored banquette provides great views of the bar and the vista . Rather than focusing on one style , the hotel ’ s varied strands of interior design concepts echo downtown LA ’ s diverse cultural heritage and spirit , resulting in an eclectic , residential vibe with warm , textural layers .
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