The Kissel Uptown Oakland (Calif.) has opened in the center of the city’s arts and entertainment district as part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt soft brand.
The 168-room, seven-story hotel blends historical references and art deco elements with contemporary design and introduces three new food and beverage options. The property, which also includes 74 residences, is owned by Signature Development Group and Jordan Real Estate Investments and managed by Evolution Hospitality.
Sharing its namesake with the original Pacific Kissel Kar-Dean Lippi Showroom that was once on the site, Kissel is a tribute to the car manufacturing industry and the blue-collar community of Oakland.
“Kissel Uptown Oakland captures the spirit and history of the city’s past while celebrating the thriving Oakland of today,” said John “JR” Reynolds, general manager of Kissel Uptown Oakland, in a statement. “We are excited to bring a story-worthy hotel to the market where our guests can explore and enjoy all that our local community has to offer, and, at the same time, provide a new enticing destination for locals.”
BAR Architects’ design of the property integrates the historic 1910s Beaux Arts façade originally created by celebrated Bay Area architect Frederick H. Meyer. Design elements include a contemporary marquee, locally commissioned artwork and large windows that let in natural light. The entry lobby interior emphasizes vertical space, incorporating elements of the art deco architecture characteristic of the neighborhood, while the exterior features architectural glass fins with digitally printed artwork commissioned from local artist Kelly Ording that stretch 70 feet above the entrance.
The interiors, overseen by Parisa O’Connell Interior Design, also take inspiration from Oakland’s past, incorporating art deco elements and blending them with the industrial character of the former auto row. A compelling color palette composed of aubergine, natural greens and blush tones are paired with natural materials used throughout. The hotel’s wallpapers, fabrics and decorative accents feature nostalgic prints that create a vintage feel with a modern edge.