The Ritz-Carlton Bacara Renovation

An iconic Southern California resort undergoes a renovation that upholds the legacy and timelessness of The Ritz-Carlton brand

The Ritz-Carlton Bacara seated terrace

Location

Santa Barbara, California, USA

North America

Size

78 acres
Five-star hotel

Services

Architecture, Landscape

Tags

Hospitality, Integrated, Resort

The Ritz-Carlton Bacara exterior

AWARDS + HONORS

Winner, Best Lobby (Luxury) – Gold Key Awards, 2020

2020 Top 15 Resorts in Southern California – Conde Nast Traveler Readers Choice Awards, 2020

WATG was commissioned as Architect of Record to renovate and reposition the landmark resort as The Ritz-Carlton, including an enhanced sense of arrival, upgraded lobby and new outdoor gathering areas. WATG coordinated with the City of Santa Barbara and California Coastal Commission, while preserving the site’s architectural gems as part of the property’s heritage.

WATG’s Landscape studio reimagined the courtyard arrival by reactivating the central water fountain and creating intimate seating arrangements amongst potted plants.

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