Welcome to an insightful conversation with Katarina Railko, a seasoned expert in hospitality, travel, and tourism, whose passion for creating memorable experiences shines through in her work. With a strong background in entertainment and events, Katarina has a keen eye for what makes a destination truly special. Today, we dive into the story behind The Ava Hotel, a stunning new lifestyle property in Paso Robles on California’s Central Coast. Our discussion explores the inspiration for this hotel, its unique design, its role as a community hub, and how it showcases the region’s rich culture and charm.
Can you share what sparked the idea for The Ava Hotel in Paso Robles?
I’m thrilled to talk about The Ava Hotel. The inspiration came from the unique blend of history, natural beauty, and emerging cultural vibrancy of Paso Robles. Nestled in the heart of California’s wine country, this town offered the perfect canvas for a lifestyle hotel that could capture the spirit of the Central Coast. It’s a place where rolling vineyards meet a burgeoning culinary scene, and we saw an opportunity to create a space that reflects that dynamic energy while offering a fresh, modern perspective.
How does The Ava Hotel embody the essence of Paso Robles as both a destination for travelers and a spot for locals?
Our vision was to make The Ava Hotel a true reflection of the region—a place where travelers can dive deep into the Central Coast experience, from its wine culture to its laid-back charm, while also serving as a social hub for the community. For visitors, it’s about immersive experiences that highlight the area’s best. For locals, we’ve crafted vibrant spaces where they can gather, dine, and celebrate, ensuring the hotel feels like an extension of Paso Robles’ historic town square.
What can you tell us about the design philosophy behind The Ava Hotel and how it connects to the region’s heritage?
The design is a heartfelt nod to Paso Robles’ heritage and its evolution as a cultural gem. We drew on mid-century modern influences, blending them with warm, natural materials like layered stonework to echo the earthy tones of the surrounding wine country. The simplicity of California modernism in the façade ties into the state’s architectural legacy, while the textures and details ground it in the local landscape. It’s about creating a space that feels both timeless and deeply rooted in this specific place.
Could you walk us through some of the standout features of the guestrooms and suites at The Ava Hotel?
Absolutely. The 151 guestrooms and suites are designed with comfort and connection in mind. Many of the upgraded rooms feature Juliet balconies with floor-to-ceiling doors that let in the stunning views of wine country, while others have pool patio decks for direct access to our rooftop saltwater pool. The suites, especially the one-bedroom and double queen options, are perfect for families or groups, offering extra space with multiple bathrooms, cozy living areas, fireplaces, and sofa sleepers for added flexibility.
The dining options at The Ava Hotel sound incredible. Can you give us a glimpse into what guests can expect from the three venues?
We’re so excited about our dining offerings! EMRE, our signature Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, brings a fresh, vibrant vibe with a menu that celebrates bold flavors and seasonal ingredients—think coastal influences with a modern twist. Pine Street Bistro offers a more casual, comforting atmosphere with dishes that feel like a warm hug, perfect for a relaxed meal. Then there’s Esperanza on the Rooftop, our rooftop bar and lounge, where guests can sip craft cocktails while soaking in panoramic views of Paso Robles. Each venue has its own personality, catering to different moods and moments.
With such extensive event space, how does The Ava Hotel cater to various gatherings and celebrations?
We’ve got 6,500 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space, which gives us incredible versatility. The Rooftop Courtyard, with its open-air design and sweeping views of Paso Robles, is a standout for weddings, corporate events, or social gatherings—it’s just magical up there. We’ve balanced indoor and outdoor options to meet a range of needs, whether it’s an intimate meeting or a large celebration, ensuring every event feels tailored and memorable with the Central Coast as the backdrop.
How does The Ava Hotel aim to elevate Paso Robles’ status as a must-visit destination on the Central Coast?
Our goal is to spotlight Paso Robles as a premier destination by curating experiences that showcase its unique attributes—think world-class wine country, a thriving culinary scene, and a rich cultural tapestry. We want visitors to feel the area’s charm through every aspect of their stay, from design to dining. By creating a space that draws both travelers and locals, we’re contributing to the town’s reputation as a hub of creativity and connection, halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles.
What’s your forecast for the future of lifestyle hotels in regions like California’s Central Coast?
I see a bright future for lifestyle hotels in areas like the Central Coast. These regions are increasingly sought after for their authenticity, natural beauty, and cultural depth—qualities that travelers crave in today’s world. Hotels that can authentically reflect their surroundings while offering elevated, personalized experiences will thrive. I believe we’ll see more properties focusing on community integration and sustainability, ensuring they not only attract visitors but also enrich the places they call home. The Ava Hotel is just the beginning of this exciting trend.
