Two brands found neutral ground with an innovative concept at the Los Angeles Marriott at L.A. Live. “Historically, most dual-brand properties have distinctly separate lobbies and elevator cores,” says designer Anita Degen of Degen & Degen. However, based on the property’s compact size, her team decided to create a new design for the Residence Inn and Courtyard that uses both branded and neutral zones.

The hotel needed to meet the requirements of both brands while fitting in with its lively atmosphere. “We were asked to design a hotel that captured the energetic vibe of L.A. Live but offered an oasis to highly activated JW Marriott next door,” says Degen, who is the founding principal of the Seattle-based design firm.

The modern, energetic aesthetic uses bright color accents on a background of dark wood, reflective chrome accents, and white terrazzo. “Both brands have an upscale feel that is more luxe than the usual installation,” Degen says. The two share the lobby and elevator core, and the front desk and reception fall into brand neutral zones. These areas feature neutral architectural finishes that make a strong statement but are free of any brand accents.

In the lobby, a 30-foot atrium space boasts a mezzanine and a framed catwalk. An icicle-like chandelier hangs above and shines blue at night, tying into the lobby’s bright blue accents and complementing the hot pink carpet on the second floor. Below, dark lounges and high-back chairs add to a stylish setting. “The lobby became the place to ‘see and be seen,’” says Degen. “The lighting accents and modern décor have an energetic vibe and a sense of excitement and glamour.” Mirror accents and coil drapes create areas of intimacy, while colorful rugs and furniture recall the property’s coastal location.

 “The biggest challenge was working the two brands into the tight footprint of the building,” explains Degen, who adds that scheduling the simultaneous completion of two hotels was also tricky. Courtyard’s 174 rooms are designed with, a younger, hipper aesthetic—casual but smart with lighter woods, minimalistic styling, and bright orange accents. “The Courtyard brand caters to the business traveler that works hard and plays hard,” she says.

In contrast, the Residence Inn brand is geared toward the extended-stay executive. The hotel is designed with organized spaces that are zoned by activity, and the 219 rooms offer kitchen facilities in a contemporary design. “The rooms are more spacious, and they feel familiar and more upscale than the Courtyard,” says Degen. Dark walnut wood, high polished stone, deep purple tones, and reflective surfaces such as chrome and crystal accents create a more deluxe atmosphere than Courtyard’s casual design.

“It took careful planning to create an open feel and accomplish all of the required brand elements,” says Degen. “I love how successfully the two brands play together, yet remain distinct.”