For interior designer Nina Freudenberger’s first foray into hospitality, she was enlisted to refresh the San Luis Creek Lodge in San Luis Obispo, California. The boutique hotel, owned by PRG Hospitality Group since 2015, has been reborn with a modern aesthetic that melds contemporary farmhouse influence with an indie-inspired Central Coast flavor. “We completely reimagined the identity of each room and the entire property to become a lodge for the sophisticated traveler,” says Freudenberger, who helms Los Angeles-based firm Freudenberger Design Studio.

Tapping into her expertise, the designer approached the project as she would a private residential project by “really taking into account each element to make sure they were unique, thoughtful, and offer inspiration for guests to bring home,” she explains. “There was another layer of experience to add, which was the part I enjoyed the most about the project.” The previously dark, Old English-style interiors were transformed into an elevated yet easygoing environment that spans 25 rooms across four buildings.

San Luis Creek Lodge comprises four buildings and 25 rooms in California’s Central Coast region

The property features a white-clad exterior accented by bold black elements. Inside, Freudenberger opted for three different room palettes—blue, green, and black—that “nod to the cultured vibe of San Luis Obispo, as well as the Central Coast’s natural landscape and the nearby vineyards.” Bringing California’s beautiful light indoors was top of mind, while natural materials like white oak floors, cane headboards, and grasscloth wallpaper reflect the hotel’s surroundings. “We thought about the texture—both visually and to the touch—to create layers that would feel interesting and be noticed throughout a person’s stay,” she adds. “Just as one discovers personal and subjective moments in nature, we wanted that to occur on a smaller scale in the rooms.”

And although there’s a repetition of design elements at San Luis Creek Lodge, “subtle color shifts and small changes make a big impact,” Freudenberger explains. “You can stay here multiple times and while it feels familiar, it also feels fresh each time.”

Three guestroom configurations are offered, ranging from 277 to 386 square feet

Striking black accents and an abundance of natural materials are found throughout the property

Each room boasts a distinct style, dominated by a palette of saturated blue, green, or black tones