RVD Associates and HBA San Francisco Reveal Design of Fairmont Breakers Long Beach

Posted in News on 31 March, 2025

Timeless architectural forms and modern detailing define the design envisioned by RVD Associates and beautifully realized by HBA San Francisco. 

A 1926 Southern California landmark emerges anew in Downtown Long Beach as RVD Associates and HBA San Francisco announce the transformative completion of Fairmont Breakers Long Beach. With a vision championed by developer Pacific6 Enterprises and designed in collaboration with Eden For Your World, the restoration of the 185-room hotel gracefully balances classic glamour with modern sensibility, setting a new standard for luxury hospitality within the city.

Stories from the hotel’s opulent past unfold upon arrival at the newly restored entrance, where Renaissance Revival-style architecture pays homage to the original work of architects Walker & Eisen. Historic storefronts and windows, carefully retained and replicated, adorn the façade along an entire city block, reinstating the building’s interwar period character. Previously sealed by seismic infill, transoms across the front exterior and two banks of windows rising 14 floors now flood the interiors with natural light.

In the grand lobby, poetic symmetry and striking elements of contrast create a welcome worthy of the Roaring Twenties. Credit for all images: Noah Webb

Inside the grand lobby, poetic symmetry and striking elements of contrast create a welcome worthy of the Roaring Twenties. Soft-spoken hues form the base palette and bring a moment of calm to the luminous interiors. The lobby preserves its 1926 origins through restored columns, intricate plaster moldings, and original ceiling heights, while polished marble floors, saturated accents, and a magnificent chandelier reference hallmarks of the era’s design. Sculpted furnishings in plush fabrics, stone and metal detailing, and artwork and accessories lend layers of rich tactility.

Reception desk serves as a sparkling focal point and sets the tone for the experience ahead.

Enveloped by bronze-mirrored screens, the reception desk serves as a sparkling focal point and sets the tone for the experience ahead. A black-and-white checkered floor pattern lays a classic yet contemporary foundation in the concierge area, while a black-and-gold wallcovering provides a dramatic touch.

“Our primary goal was to respect the legacy of the building, taking a modern approach in our design to bring new life to the property”, said Rodrigo Vargas of RVD Associates. “The intricate, original period canvas inspired us to bring in contemporary detailing to create a timeless elegant design. Our pallet for the property was inspired by the ever-evolving hues and vibrancy of the ocean. Airy blues and crisp whites greet you at the lobby and gradually evolve through the property up to the Sky Lounge where deep indigo and sapphire welcome you to view the ocean. We worked with local artisans to create a custom experience as we did with the Wallcovering by Robert Crowder at La Sala. RVD Associates is proud to have been a part of the team that re-polished the architectural jewel and brought “The Breakers” back to life.”

“We are honored to be part of this extraordinary renovation. Preserving the historic grandeur while boldly infusing contemporary sophistication through modern design elements and a daring art collection was a design journey that we enjoyed thoroughly,” said HBA San Francisco Associate Michelle Tran. “We look forward to seeing this magnetic property re-captivate guests’ hearts.”

“Our mission from the very beginning was not just to restore a historic building, but to craft a true luxury hotel experience that honors the past while embracing the future. We aimed to preserve the timeless spirit that has made The Breakers an iconic landmark in Long Beach while offering a modernized, elevated experience worthy of celebration today—and for generations to come,” said Eden For Your World Co-Founder Kasra Esteghamat, serving as Design and Development Consultant for Pacific6 Enterprises. “Through our exceptional collaboration with HBA San Francisco, RVD Associates, and Accor, we are proud to reintroduce this landmark to the community as a symbol of unparalleled hospitality and refined luxury.”

Like gems in the grand dame’s crown, the outlets and amenity spaces each express individual personality and cohesively work together in a distinctly Californian blend of the old and new.

La Sala bar and lounge has walls swathed in green chinoiserie motif

La Sala bar and lounge beckons guests to relax and marvel at the playful surroundings of its jewel-toned setting. Walls swathed in green chinoiserie motifs are met with whimsical palm chandeliers and mosaic flooring whose patterns of repetition mimic water’s movement. The bar showcases an elegant dialogue between its green stone countertop and structured metallic bar front.

Nettuno restaurants’ soaring ceilings and refined proportions create a backdrop for gallery walls of artwork

Nettuno exudes a familiar feeling of home with Italian sophistication and effortless California charm. The three-meal restaurant occupies the space once renowned as the “Hall of Galleons,” the original hotel’s extravagant, 500-seat dining room. Soaring ceilings and refined proportions create a backdrop for gallery walls of artwork, grounded by dark wood flooring. A rich material palette of deep blue velvet, leather, marble, and brass punctuates the bright interior architecture. Sculptural blown-glass globes suspend at varying heights and diffuse a soft glow. Antique-mirrored columns march in procession, casting enchanting reflections throughout the space.

Alter Ego jazz and bar lounge offers a moody, speakeasy atmosphere

A sultry jazz and bar lounge, Alter Ego transports guests to the Gilded Age with its moody, speakeasy atmosphere. Button-tufted seating in deep emerald offers sumptuous comfort for hushed conversation. The bar commands attention, where shelving rises in sleek modernity to define the back bar. A vibrant wallcovering makes a bold statement, its large-scale floral motif emerging vividly from the shadows of wood-paneled walls and dark mahogany accents.

The Sky Room is wrapped in midnight blue and embellished with brass and bronze accents

The iconic Sky Room, once graced by Hollywood legends like Clark Gable and Elizabeth Taylor, reclaims its position as the crown jewel, standing as an emblematic symbol of the past and a beacon of the future from its perch atop the hotel. Wrapped in midnight blue and embellished with brass and bronze accents, the meticulously crafted space exemplifies timeless elegance. Intricately patterned mosaic flooring intuitively guides guests to the masterpiece of a 24-seat bar outfitted with a deep red counterstone. Dining booths and plush lounge seating are cleverly arranged in intimate vignettes for enjoying handcrafted cocktails and world-class meals. Overhead, an opal glass fixture undulates in rhythmic form and shimmers with the radiance of a harbor sunset. Curated vintage art and artifacts weave nostalgic moments of discovery throughout the glamorous space.

“From historic landmarks to modern icons, every Fairmont property is woven into the fabric of its local community,” said Stephanie Smith, Executive Director, Interior Design, North & Central America – Luxury Division, Accor. “At Fairmont Breakers, this legacy lives through its unique architecture, expressive décor, and thoughtful service.”

Gorgeous shades of emerald green and pink of the Halo rooftop lounge

At Halo rooftop lounge, gorgeous shades of emerald green and pink transform sunset champagne and nightcaps into ceremony. Vibrantly layered design elements put on a symphony for the senses both indoors and out, from tile selections to wallcoverings and fabrics.

The Spa features soft illumination in a serene palette of light wood tones and neutral creams

The spa is a haven of tranquility, shaped by gentle curves and soft illumination in a serene palette of light wood tones and neutral creams, harmonized with blues and greens. The wellness journey culminates in a two-story relaxation lounge, where luxurious seating and flowing fabrics cradle guests in ultimate repose. On the pool deck, sun-soaked orange accents invigorate the space, inviting revelry and relaxation.

On the pool deck, sun-soaked orange accents invigorate the space

Primary Bedroom Breakers Suite

Guestrooms and suites embody residential warmth with destination allure. Soft coastal tones combine with light- and dark-wood finishes and brass metal detail, establishing serenity and charismatic personality within the private sanctuaries. The three-bay Breakers Suite celebrates craftsmanship through custom moldings, tailored furnishings, and artisanal touches such as the hand-painted entertainment credenza and hand-blown chandelier. The bathroom experience is a highlight, where a black-and-white mosaic rain shower encourages a luxurious start to the day, and a deep-soaking tub is perfect for unwinding after a day well spent.

Guestrooms and suites embody residential warmth with destination allure

Breakers Suite

The three-bay Breakers Suite celebrates craftsmanship through custom moldings, tailored furnishings, and artisanal touches

About RVD Associates
RVD Associates is an award-winning, international interior design firm based in Southern California, specializing in luxury interiors for the world’s most prestigious hotels, resorts, spas, fine dining venues, multifamily developments, and private residences. Renowned for its meticulous attention to detail and commitment to design excellence, RVDA collaborates with discerning clients to craft bespoke spaces that embody sophistication, innovation, and timeless elegance. Each project reflects a deep understanding of its unique vision, resulting in environments that set new standards in luxury and refinement.
Learn more at www.rodrigovargasdesign.com.

About HBA Americas
With a primary specialization in hospitality design, HBA Americas transforms the built environment with narrative-driven spaces that evoke emotion, bring a sense of wonder and inspire discovery. Each project for HBA Americas is a new opportunity to develop one-of-a-kind creative design solutions with integrity and collaboration. Boutique in its approach while international in reach, HBA Americas has offices in Atlanta, Los Angeles, Miami, and San Francisco and is enhanced by the depth of skill and resources of a global company. HBA Americas has been honored by Interior Design’s Best of Year Awards, Hospitality Design’s HD Awards, and Boutique Design’s Gold Key Awards, to name a few.
For more information, visit www.hba.com.

About Eden For Your World
Founded by John Oberacker and Kasra Esteghamat, Eden For Your World has evolved from its origins in interior and landscape design into a leading luxury travel agency known for transforming ordinary trips into extraordinary journeys. An inherent eye for design, specialized connections, and decades of luxury travel experience have shaped the agency’s distinctive approach to high-end travel curation. By leveraging deep relationships within the global travel industry, its team of advisors brings a personalized touch to creating each client’s perfect “Eden,” whether for a weekend getaway or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Visit edenforyourworld.com for more information