Formerly The Rossi, this boutique hotel — known for its spacious suites with private patios and jacuzzis and abundant foliage — is now under new ownership, and they are working on exciting new upgrades that will only strengthen the inn. “We’re bringing in a professional landscaper and arborist to help us enhance the tropical vibe so it’s more immersive, but manicured and super lush,” co-owner April Smith says. “We’re also reworking some of the space so there is a community firepit and private bar for the guests. We have some plans, it just takes a little time.” Smith and her...

Formerly The Rossi, this boutique hotel — known for its spacious suites with private patios and jacuzzis and abundant foliage — is now under new ownership, and they are working on exciting new upgrades that will only strengthen the inn. “We’re bringing in a professional landscaper and arborist to help us enhance the tropical vibe so it’s more immersive, but manicured and super lush,” co-owner April Smith says. “We’re also reworking some of the space so there is a community firepit and private bar for the guests. We have some plans, it just takes a little time.” Smith and her partners have been venture capitalists in Orange County for the last 13 years, and while they have invested in several commercial real estate properties, this is their first foray into the world of hotels. When the partners first walked onto the grounds of the Talavera, they were taken aback by the setting. “You’re in the desert and then you walk through those gates and you’re transported to a beautiful, green, lush world,” Smith says. “You forget you’re in the desert until you look up and see the beautiful mountain. It’s really a stunning moment.” In addition to freshening up the hotel, it was also important to the owners that it receive a new name. They came up with a list of options, and because of the architectural style and pottery around the property, the word “Talavera,” a type of Spanish earthenware, stood out from the other contenders. “We liked the way it sounds and looks,” Smith says. “‘Talavera’ just kept jumping out and rolled off the tongue nicely. It felt like the perfect fit. I’ve had no regrets, and I don’t remember a single other name we thought about.” The hard work — keeping up 11 rooms and taking care of an expansive property — is worth it when guests tell Smith how much they enjoyed their stay at Talavera. “It’s fulfilling when they send a text message saying they had a great time and can’t wait to be back,” Smith says. “We realize we did a good job and our team did a good job.” The Talavera has an “uncommonly high return rate,” Smith says, and that’s due to the same staff that has been welcoming guests back for years and the gorgeous property. “Our manager really has stepped up and just knows how to make people feel special and taken care of,” Smith says. “We want to enhance the quality of their stay, and that’s what I’m committed to doing. It’s a relaxing escape from the world outside.”