Dive Brief:
- Investment firms Machine Investment Group and Taconic Capital converted a 190-key lifestyle hotel in Hollywood, California, from the Thompson Hotels by Hyatt brand to Marriott International’s Autograph Collection, the firms announced in a release obtained by Hotel Dive.
- The former Thompson Hollywood has debuted as The Hollywood Grande, offering midcentury-inspired guest rooms and other distinctive amenities. Ten Five Hospitality manages the property.
- The hotel owners hope the brand conversion will enhance the guest experience and help the hotel attract additional guests, according to Eric Rosenthal, managing partner at Machine Investment Group. The transition comes as both Marriott and Hyatt strategically expand their lifestyle portfolios as competition in the segment intensifies.
Dive Insight:
The Hollywood Grande incorporates signature elements of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, including “distinctive design, personalized experiences and deep connection to local culture,” according to Machine Investment Group and Taconic Capital.
The hotel’s guest rooms and suites offer terrazzo bathrooms with curated bath amenities, smart TVs and floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic views of the Hollywood Hills. Guests also have access to a 24-hour fitness studio and a rooftop lounge and pool.
The hotel remains home to Bar Lis and The Terrace at Bar Lis, which were designed by architect and creative director Bernadette Blanc and named one of Los Angeles’ best rooftops, hosting notable DJs including Diplo, according to Machine Investment Group and Taconic Capital. The Hollywood Grande also offers a bar in the lobby that serves coffee, cocktails and casual bites, per the investment team.
Guests of The Hollywood Grande can participate in Marriott’s Bonvoy loyalty program, one of the world’s largest by membership.
The Hollywood Grande joins Autograph Collection’s portfolio of more than 330 independent hotels worldwide as Marriott eyes growth in the lifestyle segment. The hotel company boosted its lifestyle portfolio and pipeline in April with its $355 million acquisition of CitizenM.
Hyatt is also expanding in the competitive lifestyle segment, growing Thompson Hotels elsewhere, among other brands.
Machine Investment Group and Taconic Capital could not be reached for additional comment on the Hollywood hotel brand conversion.
