Hotels
Building Dreams in Beverly Hills
There are certain hotels that never lose their magic, no matter how many times you visit. The Beverly Hills Hotel is one of those places for me. It’s not just iconic, it’s personal, and easily one of my all-time favorites. So when I heard about their newest experience, Building Dreams in Beverly Hills, it immediately caught my attention.
This is not your typical hotel activity. It’s a thoughtfully curated, private architecture tour that brings together Hollywood storytelling and design in a way that feels completely aligned with the spirit of Beverly Hills. The experience is inspired by Paul R. Williams, the legendary architect behind many of the hotel’s most recognizable features, including the grand entrance, the Crescent Wing, the Polo Lounge, and those iconic poolside cabanas. Williams is often called the “architect to the stars.”
The journey begins at the hotel, where guests are picked up and driven through Beverly Hills in a chauffeured car for a three-hour, expert-led tour. Along the way, you’ll explore some of the city’s most fascinating architectural landmarks, from Williams’ signature residential designs to the former Music Corporation of America building, the boutiques of Rodeo Drive, and even the striking, modern lines of the Academy Museum designed by Renzo Piano.
What I love most is the storytelling element. This isn’t just about buildings. It’s about the personalities, the history, and the creative vision that shaped Beverly Hills into what it is today. With a knowledgeable guide leading the experience, you uncover details and anecdotes that even frequent visitors might miss. And the tour is tailored, so whether you are deeply passionate about architecture or simply curious, it adapts to your level of interest.
Back at the hotel, the connection to Paul R. Williams becomes even more meaningful. His influence is woven throughout the property, and for those who want to fully immerse themselves, the Paul R. Williams Suite offers a rare opportunity to stay within that legacy. Designed with original mid-century details, it feels both timeless and unique.
The experience is available as part of a package that includes a stay in a junior suite, daily breakfast, and the private guided tour. It can also be arranged separately for hotel guests with advance notice, making it a flexible addition to an already unforgettable stay.
As part of Dorchester Collection’s Legendary Artists series, this is also a new and exciting evolution of their programming, shifting the focus from traditional art to architecture and design. It’s such a natural fit for a destination like Beverly Hills, where style and storytelling are so deeply intertwined.
For anyone who appreciates design, history, and a true sense of place, this is a beautiful way to experience Beverly Hills on a deeper level.
And for me, it’s just one more reason to return to a hotel I already love.
