Restoration hardware

Orli (La Jolla)

GETAWAYS • La Jolla

La Jolla’s newish micro-hotel Orli is a sly flip of a former historic residence from the 1910s, a landmark building parceled into 13 rooms. Sitting behind a private gate with code access, the hotel’s two buildings are separated by an olive tree-lined courtyard and were designed by architect Irving Gill (oft-credited as the founder of California modernism). The property is right in the thick of La Jolla — yet also, incredibly discreet.

My room, known as The Wing, was the size of a junior suite, with a living area, marble fireplace, full-size desk, and buffet stocked with coffee and snacks. The marble-tiled bathroom had a full soaking tub, leather window seat, and marble sink. Curvy, minimalist couches and chairs, textured wood furniture, and glossy jewel tones set a contemporary but warm vibe. Out on the desk, a record player and a variety of vinyl selections — bonus points for Daft Punk’s Random Access Memories — were awaiting my arrival.

But the best part may be the technology. Sister and brother founders Hailey and Max Waitt wanted to do more than just retrofit a historic building. They built an entire digital portal that lets guests come and go as they please, set their own check-in and check-out time, and purchase add-ons like coffee kits, flowers, cheese and charcuterie, and Champagne — all before they set foot in the room. And if you prefer good old-fashioned human connection, there’s also a concierge on-hand all day. –Caitlin White

→ Orli (La Jolla) • 7753 Draper Ave • Weekend king rates from $404.