Historic Carlton Hotel Reopens After Major Renovations, Joins Marriott Tribute Portfolio

The Carlton Hotel, a historic hotel in Atascadero in San Luis Obispo County, is embarking on a new chapter as it reopens its doors, marking a significant milestone for the nearly century-old property. 

After several years of renovation and restoration, The Carlton Hotel has opened as part of Marriott Bonvoy’s Tribute Portfolio. The premium brand consists of independent boutique hotels that retain their unique character and identity. 

The Carlton Hotel announced its reopening and rebranding in a social media post and included a picture of the recently refurbished hotel. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by The Carlton Hotel (@carlton_hotel)

Rooms are available across several categories, including Orchard King, Guild Loft, Legacy King, Legacy Two Queen, Garden Balcony King, Heritage Suite, Garden Patio King, and more. 

The hotel includes a business center, a gift shop, a fitness center, and meeting space. Guests can also access the Back Porch Bakery, a community-driven cafe located within the hotel on El Camino Real.  

Reimagined Landmark

Built almost 100 years ago, the Carlton Hotel was the result of ironworker Robert Bentley and woodworker John Bourgault, according to the hotel’s website. 

The hotel was originally built in 1928 as a two-story building and was named ‘The Annex.’ It included luxury rooms and a retail store on the ground floor. 

By 1930, the hotel adapted to its new identity and name. Renamed as ‘The Carlton’ by owners Nola Tunks and her brother George Clark, the hotel added a neon sign, which is still operational today. 

Over the next few decades, the hotel changed hands and introduced changes, including the famous mosaic champagne glass at the entrance and the addition of a clock tower. 

Between the 1970s and 1990s, the hotel underwent a period of transition and functioned as a senior housing for some years. 

At the turn of the new millennium, the hotel underwent major changes under the new owners, who undertook renovations to reopen it as a hotel and preserve its original craftsmanship. 

In 2023, The Carlton was acquired by new owners who undertook extensive renovations to embrace the Arcadian Guild theme. 

The hotel was acquired by Kamal Patel in 2023, according to KSBY. 

Extensive Renovations 

The hotel’s lobby has been reimagined and features Italian marble flooring, natural textures, and custom-crafted furnishings. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by The Carlton Hotel (@carlton_hotel)

The guest rooms have been renovated to include new flooring, ambient lighting, and refreshed bathrooms. 

New dining experiences have been designed, including a bar and restaurant with fermentation tanks. A new speakeasy event space is expected to open soon.