The historic Empire Building, constructed in 1908, was a college, bank and law firm over the last century. Now, it receives new life as The Hotel E, opening late spring as the first new hotel in Santa Rosa, California, since the October 2017 wildfires. The property receives its name for the regional enology, prior “Empire” status and the promise of an exceptional experience.

The property’s Beaux Arts exterior goes untouched, while demolition of an adjacent building makes way for a future courtyard. The interior, meanwhile, receives an elegant look, inspired by local Sonoma homes. Guests choose between nearly 40 double and king guestrooms or two suites. Many rooms look over Courthouse Square, with views of Bennett Valley Peak and Sonoma Mountain.

A separate building, opening later this year, houses the hotel’s roof deck and café, fitness center, meeting space, a Starbucks, a restaurant and bar and an additional 29 guestrooms and two suites. The Empire Building portion of the hotel offers one on-site dining option; The Enology Lounge is a wine bar.