My relationship with the Huntley goes back to when it was owned by the Radisson group. I loved this hotel, its a great find, down a quiet street, with nice views, fantastic location and good prices.
This was my first visit back in years...and when asked if I would stay again the answer would be yes. The hotel has been remodeled since my last stay...and reviews about the hotel being dark are very accurate. You may not think this is a big deal, particularily in a City with such great weather...but the hotel halls are painted a dark coppery brown, the carpets are dark brown and the lighting is minimal. It is defininetly dark. I honestly had no idea I would be so affected by a hotels choice of color scheme or lighting!
The rooms are a toss up. The first room we were put in was small, and darkish, there is no fixed lighting in the rooms other than an enterance pot light. All other lighting comes from lamps thoughout. The first room we were given seemed dark and was showing signs of wear....mascara on the pillow, crackign paint etc.
I asked the front desk if they had something else available and they were more than happy to oblige. This I cannot fault. The front desk people REALLY try! Particularily Rahmin who was a great help. He not only TRIED but followed through! The room we were given in its place was bigger, brighter, and definetly less tired looking...but how is one to ensure this on thier next stay?
When I say the front desk tries...my issue is this, in some cases there is no follow through. After we settled in our new room I let them know the only fixed light in the room (potlight at the enterance) was burned out. They offered to replace it that very night. I said not to worry it could be done the next day. I didnt mention it again but the light was NEVER fixed. They arranged our car rental and were most helpful. But, when it came to returning the car, I did so the night before, and despite assurances from the front desk that they would make sure it got returned on time I received a call from the rental company asking if I was returning the car. When I followed up with them they glady checked into things. There was also the issue of teh a/c streaming in some very horrid fragrances...at one point the room was smelling like skunk. The internet access is free which is a GREAT benefit as so many hotels now charge and arm and a leg for wireless. Again I had to call several times to get wireless set up b/c someone forgot. Follow through.

We had lunch at the restuarant which seems to be a major draw for locals and tourists throughout the week and particularily on the weekends. The views were very nice and our food lovely. The bed was extremely comfortable...one of the best I have slept in. but there is residual noise from the hallway, elevator, and bar that counteract attempts at a good night sleep! The rooms were immaculately cleaned every day. Location is GREAT.

I will say this...we stayed at the Fairmont Miramar the last time we were in Santa Monica (across the street)....and I would stay at the Huntley over and over again if I had to choose between the two. We had some of the same problems (and some much more serious) but at least I wasnt paying twice the price!

I will give the Huntley a second chance....fingers crossed.