La Perla

El Paso, TX

Our team was tasked with converting a penthouse-level suite, where starlet Elizabeth Taylor famously lived while briefly married to Conrad Hilton’s son, into an indoor bar and outdoor rooftop space. As a nod to Elizabeth Taylor, the rooftop bar design features luxurious feminine touches, such as white marble and playful Art Deco-inspired patterns, including navy arches on the sofas.

The biggest challenge for our team was the tricky size of the bar area. The historic hotel had gone through a renovation and was brought up to code, with fire exit stairs and elevators occupying much of the once usable space. Our designers decided to create a floating bar with mirror-polished elements to help maximize the space. This effect was also featured in a mirror accent wall installed from across the bar.

With fantastic views of the skyline and mountain vistas, the 17th-story terrace bar was ripe with possibilities as well as challenges. The environmental elements of the desert, such as the intense heat and dust, required fade-resistant, durable fabrics on the furnishings. The team pivoted from the original inclusion of lush green plants to dessert succulents that would remain attractive year-round. To help camouflage the sand blown into the space, the design team used patterned fabrics on the semi-private seating areas.

The spectacular carved arched façade creates a picturesque backdrop behind wingback lounge chairs and plush banquette. Custom cement tile flooring brings in a bit of modern playfulness, while still reflecting the original Art Deco style. A custom-built, tree-like fixture references the organic nature of the surrounding plants, while providing amber-hued lighting in the space. Candleholders also adorn the sleek tables, allowing guests to fully enjoy the views of the sunset and star-lit southwest nights.

Bold patterns, such as the yellow accents featured on the side tables and pillows, help tie the old with the new. Inside the main bar area, modern touches include the white marble bar top with black accents, clear glassware on open-shelving, and the neutral gray and navy seating areas. Guests can comfortably relax, sip a cocktail, and enjoy the convivial ambiance.