The historic Empire Building, constructed in 1908, has served as a college, a bank and a law firm over the past century. It has now been reborn as The Hotel E, set to open in late spring as the first new hotel in Santa Rosa, California, since the October 2017 wildfires. The hotel’s name reflects the region’s wine culture, the building’s former “Empire” identity and a promise of an exceptional guest experience.
The building’s Beaux-Arts exterior has been preserved, while the demolition of an adjacent structure will create space for a new courtyard. Inside, the hotel’s design draws inspiration from Sonoma homes, delivering an elegant, comfortable atmosphere. The property offers nearly 40 guestrooms with double and king beds, plus two suites. Many rooms overlook Courthouse Square and provide views of Bennett Valley Peak and Sonoma Mountain.
A separate building, scheduled to open later this year, will include a rooftop deck and café, a fitness center, meeting facilities, a Starbucks, a restaurant and bar, and an additional 29 guestrooms with two suites. Within the Empire Building itself, guests can enjoy on-site dining at The Enology Lounge, a dedicated wine bar that highlights the region’s viticulture.
Positioned in the heart of downtown Santa Rosa, The Hotel E blends historic charm with contemporary amenities. The restoration preserves architectural details on the exterior while modernizing interiors for today’s travelers. Rooms feature thoughtful touches and local influences, aiming to offer both comfort and a sense of place for visitors exploring Sonoma County’s wineries, dining and outdoor attractions.
By reintroducing a landmark building as a boutique hotel, the project contributes to downtown revitalization and provides a new hospitality option for residents and visitors alike. The addition of the adjacent building will expand the property’s offerings and create public spaces—such as the future courtyard and rooftop deck—that enhance the downtown experience. Together, the preserved Empire Building and the new development aim to celebrate local culture, architecture and enology while supporting the community’s ongoing recovery and growth.