I N G R I D B R A U N
Photographed by: John Russo
Interview by: Tere Maurel
TM: Can you give us a brief background on yourself and how you found your way to working at 1 Hotel West Hollywood?
IB: I studied Hotel, Restaurant, and Travel Administration in school, which set the foundation for what’s now been over 20 years in the hospitality industry. Throughout my career, I’ve worked across both luxury and lifestyle hotel brands, including W Hotels, The Hollywood Roosevelt, , Fairmont, and more recently opening of Santa Monica Proper and Hotel June. What has kept me passionate is seeing how the industry continues to evolve. Hotels have become vibrant, experience-driven spaces that bring people together through design, atmosphere, and a sense of community. That is what drew me to 1 Hotels. The brand’s commitment to sustainability, wellness, and creating meaningful guest experiences felt like a perfect fit for where I am in my career and what I value as a leader.
TM: Have you worked in other roles in the hospitality field?
IB: After graduation I worked my way up the ranks starting in F&B and then moving to the Rooms side. Over the years I think I have touched almost every role that a hotel holds in some capacity but the majority of time before becoming a GM was spent heavily involved in Operations.
TM: Can you tell us the brand philosophy at 1 Hotel West Hollywood?
IB: At 1 Hotel West Hollywood, our philosophy is all about reimagining luxury through a connection to nature. Inspired by the landscape and energy of Southern California, we’ve created a space that’s both comfortable and refined, where eco-conscious practices and warm, attentive service go hand in hand. Everything from the materials we use to the experiences we offer is rooted in a respect for the environment and the local community. It’s about offering guests a meaningful, memorable experience while also being mindful of our impact.
TM: What makes the property different from staying at other City Properties in Los Angeles?
IB: One of the things that really makes 1 Hotel West Hollywood stand out is the sense of calm and connection to nature you feel the moment you arrive. While we’re set along the Sunset Strip, the property feels like an escape, with incredible views of the Hollywood Hills and Downtown LA. The design is inspired by the natural beauty of Southern California, with floor-to-ceiling windows, native greenery, and reclaimed materials throughout. It’s a space where you can truly unwind without ever feeling removed from what makes LA exciting. That balance between city energy and a grounded, relaxing atmosphere is what makes the experience so unique.
TM: What about your property keeps guests returning for multiple stays?
IB: What brings guests back to 1 Hotel West Hollywood is the genuine sense of comfort and care they experience here. The team puts a lot of thought into making each stay personal, whether it’s remembering small details or finding little ways to make someone’s experience even better. There is always something new to discover, from wellness classes and seasonal events to thoughtful programming that makes each visit special. Combined with the calming design, incredible views, and easy access to everything LA has to offer, it creates an atmosphere that guests are drawn to again and again.
TM: How have you maintained such a high level of consistent perfection in an ever-changing hotel market? Is there a secret to your success?
IB: Consistency really comes down to culture. We have built a team that genuinely cares, not just about service, but about creating real connections with our guests, our community, and the environment around us. Staying committed to our core values, whether it is our focus on eco-conscious practices, meaningful programming, or thoughtful personalized service, has helped us to remain consistent and authentic. There is no one secret to success, but I believe it starts with leading by example, investing in the team, and staying true to the values that define 1 Hotels, creating a hospitality experience that is rooted in care and connection.
TM: Tell us about some of the unique curated experiences the property offers?
IB: We love offering experiences that feel thoughtful and restorative, and that reflect the spirit of the property. Guests can take part in our Mindful Mixology Master Class where they learn to craft cocktails using seasonal, fresh ingredients in a way that’s both creative and intentional. We also host regular sound bath sessions that give guests a chance to slow down, reset, and connect with themselves in a deeper way. In addition, we’ve partnered with Alo Moves to host community run clubs, offering a fun and energizing way to explore West Hollywood. We try to offer moments that feel authentic to the property and give guests different ways to connect, unwind, and enjoy their time with us.
TM: The entry outdoor green area is spectacular, how is this space offered to guests? Can they rent it for private events?
IB: Juniper Garden is one of my favorite parts of the property. Even though we’re in the middle of West Hollywood, it feels completely removed from the city. Surrounded by olive trees, native plants, and trailing vines, the space has this quiet, natural beauty that guests really respond to.
It’s open from the afternoon into the evening for cocktails and small bites, and we host DJ sessions on Fridays and Saturdays that bring a fun, laid-back energy to the space. The garden is also available for private events, offering a versatile setting that works beautifully for gatherings of any size, from intimate dinners to larger celebrations.
To learn more about 1 Hotel West Hollywood follow them @1hotel.weho