Downtown Los Angeles
When I first discovered the Tuck Hotel in Downtown Los Angeles, my first thought was that it is much needed. This neighborhood is not exactly known for Stylish Stays. But as I really jumped in, I realized that the Tuck represents so much more than just a place to lay your head in style. It is part of the renaissance taking place there, and a celebration of the creative minds that believe in possibility.
I really wanted my outfit to reflect the same sentiment, so I reached out to designer Ripley Rader, known for her famously chic jumpsuits, and created the perfect pairing of two independent brands both based Downtown LA.
So without further ado, I give you my next Stylish Stay. Welcome to the Tuck Hotel. Catherine Shepperd from The Life Styled Blog and I check in.
What I Love: The entrepreneurial spirit of Juan Pablo Torre, who designed the hotel himself—proving the naysayers wrong—and built his dream. Constructed in 1922, the building was a former brothel that he managed to refurbish into a 14-room cozy, cool home-away-from-home. For more of his incredible journey of bringing this hotel to life, check out my friend Jan McCarthy’s podcast “Entrepreneurial Voice” here.
Something to Know: The hotel and bar are for hotel guests only—meaning you can’t just walk through the lobby unless you’re staying there. My husband and I tried to visit for a cocktail on Cinco de Mayo and were surprised to find that out first-hand! Rest assured, however, that as a hotel guest, you will be very glad that is the case, since it’s the main common area.
Suite Dreams: The rooms are minimalist in design with an urban flare, featuring art pieces by photographer Davis Factor, brass fixtures, and a cheeky sign for the door that says “Tuck Off,” when you prefer not to be disturbed. Though the bathrooms aren’t super-luxurious, they are brand-new—with L’Occitane products. The room we had was an Atelier room, so there is the option of a Deluxe, which is a little larger. I think solo travelers would find the rooms very comfortable, but I wouldn’t recommend it for families
Stylish Sips: The attached restaurant is open to the public—get the smoked salmon sandwich with a fried egg and a gorgeous glass of sangria—delicioso! Word on the street is if you befriend Mr. Torre, who is usually there, you might possibly get invited to the bar.
Cool Factor: It really doesn’t get any cooler than downtown LA at the moment, and the Tuck has cultivated a sense of community in the neighborhood, creating a gathering place for guests that are treated like family. It is also located within walking distance of the legendary Cole’s French Dip (there’s a speakeasy in the back with killer cocktails!), Preux & Proper, and Terroni.
Hero Shot: At the chic cocktail bar with a drink in tow.
Wearing this Ripley Rader Jumpsuit. *Though I borrowed it for the shoot, I ended up purchasing it I liked it so much!
Catherine and I have similar taste, bonding over (what else?) hotels—becoming fast friends. A stylist by profession, check out her blog The Life Styled for fashion tips and inspiration.
Tuck Hotel. 820 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90014. 213-947-3815
Photos by Ashley Burns Photography
Thanks for ferreting out the best in our own city, something most of us never bother to do. Thankfully we have you to do it for us! And I cannot get over how phenomenal your photos always are. It makes me feel like never posting another photo again :-)!
Thank you so much! I actually did have a real photographer for this one and a lot of others. Though I’ve made it my mission to get better at taking them. Thanks for noticing 🙂 x