The Cypress Inn, Carmel’s iconic boutique hotel known for its Old Hollywood charm and dog-friendly spirit, has been featured in the latest issue of Coastal Grower Magazine for its ongoing “light touch renovation”—a thoughtful refresh designed to honor the inn’s storied past while embracing a more modern sophistication.
A fixture of Carmel-by-the-Sea since 1929, The Cypress Inn gained worldwide acclaim thanks in part to its co-owner and Hollywood legend Doris Day. Now, as it approaches its centennial, the historic inn is undergoing a phased transformation under the direction of renowned Carmel-based designer Charles Gruwell.
Rather than overhaul the beloved space, Gruwell’s approach is to subtly upgrade and enhance. “Not a complete change, just upgrading the feel of it,” said General Manager Joseph Violi in the Coastal Grower feature. Violi, a Cornell-educated hospitality veteran, described his role as “a steward of a legacy,” and emphasized the importance of preserving the inn’s Spanish–Moroccan identity while refining its experience for a new generation of guests.
Spearheaded by longtime owner and hospitality entrepreneur Dennis LeVett, the renovation includes updates to The Cypress Inn’s famous living room—long a community gathering space for live music on weekends—as well as refreshed guestrooms, new patio furnishings, and enhanced design touches throughout the property. Local artist Lisa Haas added to the project with a whimsical trompe-l’oeil mural in the front bar area, affectionately dubbed “the dog bar,” adding depth and charm that pays tribute to the inn’s playful spirit.
The heart of the property remains Terry’s Lounge, the inn’s iconic restaurant and bar named in honor of Doris Day’s son, musician and producer Terry Melcher. As ever, Terry’s continues to be a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike to unwind in classic Carmel style.
With no plans to close during the renovations, The Cypress Inn remains open and fully operational. The work is unfolding in thoughtful phases, ensuring that guests continue to enjoy the relaxed glamour and timeless atmosphere that have made the inn a local institution for nearly a century.
To read the full feature, view Coastal Grower Magazine’s latest issue below:
