Hotel El Roblar reopens after extensive restoration efforts

Located in California, Hotel El Roblar, which was established in 1919, has recently reopened after decades of inactivity. Its restoration took more than six years and involved a unique collaboration among a diverse group of investors, including Eric Goode, a producer known for the 'Tiger King', designer Ramin Shamshiri, restaurateur Warner Ebbink, and local hotelier Jeremy McBride. Their aim was to breathe new life into Ojai's oldest hotel while respecting its historic roots. Despite not functioning as a traditional hotel for the last 50 years, the team sought to modernize the hotel’s offerings without losing the historical essence of the property that has stood for over a century. The restoration process focused on preserving the hotel’s original character while making it appealing to contemporary tastes. This required sourcing over a thousand unique decorative items that reflect the local culture and artistic talents of Ojai residents. Among these items is a favorite, a paper mache Road Runner created by an elderly local artist. The collective goal was not only to restore the hotel's grandeur but also to create an inviting community space for both visitors and locals. Challenges arose, especially with the need to implement modern conveniences in a landmark that had largely remained in its original state and had not operated as a hotel in recent decades. As the hotel welcomed its first guests after the reopening, the ownership group expressed excitement about the journey they undertook to revitalize this important community landmark. The challenges of balancing modernity with tradition reflected the broader narrative of Ojai's evolution while preserving its unique identity. Collaboration among the owners fostered a vibrant atmosphere, sharing a vision for El Roblar that honors its history while creating a fresh and engaging experience for its guests. The hotel now boasts a charming lobby that retains elements from its inception, showcasing the community's artistic spirit and deep cultural roots. Looking ahead, the team hopes the hotel will become a renowned destination for travelers interested in experiencing the distinctive allure of Ojai. Questions remain about what the long-term impact of their endeavor will be, particularly in connecting visitors to the local environment and culture, and the team continues to embrace the unpredictable nature of reviving a historical establishment.