How California's heritage inspired the design of The Murieta Inn and Spa

Twenty-five miles southeast of downtown Sacramento, the boutique Murieta Inn and Spa has opened its doors. Perkins, Williams & Cotterill were involved in the design.

The hotel's exterior has Spanish Hacienda-style architecture that pays homage to California's heritage. The property also has an outdoor resort-style pool and terrace patio with a fireplace. Other amenities include The Gate restaurant and bar, The Cupola spa and salon (opening early spring), pool, and up to 15,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting and event space.

Managed by Marcus Hotels & Resorts, The Murieta Inn and Spa is the brainchild of Carol Anderson Ward, owner of the nearby Murieta Equestrian Center. In addition to heritage pieces selected by Ward herself, equestrian themed furniture and art—procured by Cares & Whoas, a boutique store that benefits the  West Coast Equine Foundation—are incorporated throughout the property. Handcrafted, custom woodwork and rustic metal pieces by Cumberland Ironworks are also highlighted across the property and grounds.

The 83 guestrooms and suites include king and queen rooms—some of which have balcony views, private patios and parlor suites.  Ranging in size from 275 square feet to over 550 square feet, guestroom options include: 35 classic rooms; 37 premium rooms with a courtyard view with balcony; three signature rooms located on the top floor, featuring high ceilings, exposed beams and courtyard views with a balcony; three premium suites and one signature king suite, featuring a private balcony or patio; and four parlor rooms with a hospitality area and queen sleeper sofa.

The Gate restaurant at The Murieta Inn and Spa is helmed by chef Brian Hawkins.

For events, the property has up to 15,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space. With nearly 3,000 total square feet, the Legacy Ballroom can be divided into three separate function rooms. The room has enhanced acoustics, controlled lighting and large screen displays.

Located under the hotel's bell tower is the Fireside Terrace. Opening onto the Fireside Terrace is the Bourbon Room, which is ideal for break-out groups, board meetings or private dining. This venue can be divided into two rooms (Board Room and Bourbon Bar).

The one-acre Park at The Murieta Inn and Spa is located just beyond the hotel's pool area. It has a shaded elevated piazza that can also be used for events, with the park serving as a backdrop for the scenery of Rancho Murieta.

Beginning in spring, the property will have The Cupola Spa and Salon, which will have four private rooms available for body treatments, massages, facials, manicures, pedicures and hair salon services.

Mary Orlando is the general manager of The Murieta Inn and Spa.

Photo credit (interior): Jean Fitzgerald
Photo credit (food/lifestyle/pool): Eli Pitta