Renowned interior designer Charles Gruwell is embarking on an exciting new chapter, bringing his award-winning talent back to his roots in Pacific Grove, California. With a career spanning 45 years and a portfolio that includes 40 boutique hotels worldwide, Gruwell is now partnering with seasoned hospitality professionals Don and Jay Desai to introduce The Charles Pacific Grove—a boutique bed and breakfast that seamlessly blends classical design with contemporary flair.
Set to open in June 2025, The Charles Pacific Grove is poised to become a beacon of style and inclusivity, catering to LGBTQ+ travelers, straight vacationers, and everyone in between. The hotel will mark the debut of the Metro Lifestyle Brand—a hospitality concept crafted by Gruwell and the Desai brothers, built on the pillars of stylish interiors, diversity, and artistic sophistication.
A Personal and Visionary Project
At 72 years old, Gruwell considers The Charles Pacific Grove his most personal project to date. Inspired by the individuality of boutique hotels in cities like London, Gruwell envisions a property that offers guests a cosmopolitan experience while embracing the charming character of Pacific Grove.
“I aim to create an environment that merges international style and flair with the unique character of Pacific Grove,” Gruwell explains. “Our goal is to offer a stylish, welcoming haven where guests from all walks of life feel valued and celebrated.”
Unveiling in Pride Month
Following an extensive renovation, The Charles Pacific Grove is scheduled for a soft opening on June 1, 2025, just in time for Pride Month. The official grand opening celebration will take place on June 28, 2025, solidifying its commitment to inclusivity and community.
A New Standard for Boutique Hospitality
The Metro Lifestyle Brand aims to redefine stylish and inclusive hospitality. Key elements of the hotel experience will include:
Masterful Design: Each room will reflect Gruwell’s signature blend of high fashion, classical artwork, and trendsetting furnishings, creating a space that feels both luxurious and welcoming.
Culinary Delights: Guests will enjoy gourmet breakfasts, featuring locally sourced ingredients, and a curated social hour with savory bites, local wines and cheeses, and an afternoon nosh.
Artistic Sophistication: The hotel’s interiors will feature thoughtfully curated art pieces, creating a gallery-like ambiance that enhances the guest experience.
Expanding the Vision: Napa Valley
Building on the excitement of The Charles Pacific Grove, Gruwell has already acquired a second property in Napa, California, which will become the next location in The Charles line. The Napa property is currently welcoming guests, with renovations underway to transform the space in alignment with the Metro Lifestyle Brand. The redesign is expected to be completed by the end of 2025, bringing Gruwell’s signature blend of sophisticated design and elevated hospitality to the heart of wine country.
A Legacy of Style and Inclusivity
With a portfolio that spans San Francisco, Bali, Disney Resorts, Las Vegas, Hawaii, and beyond, Gruwell’s return to Pacific Grove marks a full-circle moment in his illustrious career. Since returning to the region in 2020, he has cemented his reputation as the premier luxury residential and hospitality designer for the Monterey Peninsula, Carmel, and Pebble Beach.
As The Charles brand expands, Gruwell’s vision of creating design-forward, inclusive boutique hotels continues to take shape—establishing The Charles as a must-visit destination for the modern, style-conscious traveler.
For more information, visit:Pacific Grove: www.TheCharlesPG.comNapa Valley: www.TheCharlesNapa.com
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