This New Boutique Hotel Draws Inspiration from Its Mid-Century Architecture—with a Pop of Palm Springs Style

The Balboa Peninsula, often shortened to the Peninsula, separates the bay from the ocean in sunny Newport Beach, California. This stretch of land is mostly residential, with a number of rental properties, but there’s a new lodging option that’s garnering attention from visitors and residents: the Bay Shores Peninsula Hotel, a boutique retreat just steps from the water. 

Local Newport Beach-based CPDstudio was tapped for the design transformation, which was centered around the property’s sense of place. “A theme I carried throughout was wanting guests, when they arrived, to immediately know they were in Newport Beach,” explains Courtney Peña, principal designer at CPD. But don’t expect to find anything cliché. “No surf memorabilia or kitschy elements. The photography, the materials, the colors, the striped wallpaper, all of that lends itself to Newport in a subtle way.”

Photo by Shelby Bourne; Styling by Cate Kalus

The charming, cozy space was elevated with a powdery palette of soft pinks, blues, and greens—all of which create a sense of calm with retro and vintage nods reminiscent of mid-century moderns in Palm Springs. Clean plaster and straight lines were the canvas the team used to balance contemporary design with the hotel’s mid-century bones.

“We wanted to bring color back in, but in a way that felt layered and relaxed rather than overly modern,” Peña adds. “In terms of materials, we chose marble, natural stone, and limestone because they age beautifully and develop character over time. The goal was to use materials that feel elevated but still approachable, and that only improve with wear.”

Photo by Shelby Bourne; Styling by Cate Kalus

From the 25 rooms and suites to the on-site café dishing out lattes and pastries, CPD’s design intent is consistent throughout. Not to mention, the borrowable blankets, pickleball paddles, and beach cruisers (a preferred mode of transportation, especially during traffic-heavy summer months) are authentic extensions of the nostalgic palette and style. 

The exterior features were carefully considered to align with the interior design, which is why you’ll find the same subtle baby pink on the doors and windows, along with versatile seating areas at the Penny Rooftop. Boasting views of both the bay and ocean, guests are welcome to work, relax by a fire pit, or even host a private happy hour in this exclusive outdoor spot. 

Photo by Shelby Bourne; Styling by Cate Kalus

Photo by Shelby Bourne; Styling by Cate Kalus

From the moment you’re greeted at check-in, this approachably curated hotel is an inviting hidden gem for any visitor who wants to live like a local.