Behind the Scenes at The Langham Huntington, Pasadena’s Grand Hotel

For more than a century, the Langham Huntington, Pasadena has been more than just a luxury hotel.

It’s been a place where memories are made—where locals gather for weddings, weekend getaways and timeless traditions like afternoon tea. Leslie Marks, now the hotel’s Director of Marketing and Communications, remembers having tea here with her mother and grandmother. It’s the kind of place that becomes part of a family’s story, visited again and again over generations.

At East West Bank, headquartered a couple of miles away, we recognize that sense of continuity. Like The Langham, we’ve grown alongside the city, rooted in Pasadena’s history while looking toward its future. It’s part of why the hotel’s story resonates with us—not just as bankers but as neighbors and longtime supporters of the institutions that make our community unique.

Supporting a Pasadena Hotel Legacy Through Long-Term Vision

Keeping a landmark like The Langham Huntington thriving takes more than a celebrated past. It takes creativity, long-term vision and financial insight tailored to the complexities of hospitality. For nearly 20 years, the hotel has relied on our consistent support to fund thoughtful upgrades that enhance the guest experience while preserving its historic charm. From day-to-day operations to strategic improvements, it’s a relationship built on trust and shared priorities.

“We choose to work with East West Bank because of its consistent commitment to professionalism, speed and accuracy—qualities that align closely with our own values,” said Marks.

Answering the Call—Together

That commitment to place became especially clear in January 2025, when the Eaton Fire ignited just north of Pasadena. It posed a serious threat to homes, neighborhoods and the spirit of the city itself. As emergency crews responded, organizations across the city quickly mobilized to help.

East West Bank quickly stepped in—offering flexible solutions for impacted customers and donating to nonprofits on the front lines of the response. The Langham rose to the moment, opening its doors and offering more than 1,100 room nights to displaced residents, essential workers and staff in need of shelter. Its team worked with Reach Out Worldwide and the City of Pasadena to donate furniture and household items to families starting to rebuild.

“One woman told me she was able to get back to work because she received a desk from us,” Marks said. “That’s what it’s about—helping people move forward.”

Preserving Pasadena’s History: The Picture Bridge

For a historic Pasadena hotel like The Langham, community involvement isn’t just about stepping in during times of need—it’s also about preserving what makes a place feel like home. That philosophy is reflected in the restoration of the hotel’s Picture Bridge, a Pasadena landmark whose revival was supported by financing from East West.

Built in 1932 and adorned with 41 triangular paintings of California landscapes by British Impressionist Frank Montague Moore, the bridge had withstood a century of sun, rain and wear. By 2020, the original artwork was too delicate to remain on display. The Langham worked with Pasadena Heritage and Curatorial to recreate the paintings and restore the bridge’s charm.

“Guests would always ask when the bridge would be restored,” Marks recalled. “It felt like a gift not just to ourselves but something to be shared with and celebrated with the community of Pasadena.”

That dedication extended to other updates as well, including new marble flooring in high-traffic areas.

Bringing Art to Life

Beyond physical improvements, The Langham has also invested in enriching the guest experience—most notably through its growing support for the arts. It’s a focus we share at East West, where our Art Program—now in its 20th year—reflects a commitment to cultural connection and community.

At the hotel, that same commitment is visible throughout the property, from curated pieces in common areas to new initiatives that bring artistic expression into the spotlight.

One recent example is The Langham Gallery—a space showcasing the history of the property through original photos and memorabilia. New informational cards now also accompany the antique art and furnishings that decorate the hotel’s public spaces. Each piece is paired with a QR code that allows guests to explore its history and context.

“We realized we had a treasure trove of historic pieces,” Marks said. “Now our guests can appreciate the history that surrounds them.”

The hotel also introduced the Tap Room Art Series in collaboration with The Resin Collection. The first exhibition, a solo show by Los Angeles-based artist Jill Knox, brings a fresh, modern perspective to the hotel’s stylish Tap Room. Additional exhibitions are in the works, continuing the hotel’s celebration of artistic expression in all its forms.

Where East Meets West: Wellness at Chuan Spa

Art isn’t the only area where The Langham Huntington Pasadena hotel blends tradition and innovation. That same philosophy guides its signature Chuan Spa. Inspired by Traditional Chinese Medicine, the spa offers personalized treatments based on the five elements—wood, earth, fire, metal and water.

Guests begin with a short questionnaire to identify their element for the day, followed by a treatment tailored to their balance and energy.

“It’s a holistic journey, not just a massage,” Marks said. “From the scents and sounds to the flowing water features, it’s designed to help guests feel renewed and grounded.”

Welcoming the Future with Open Arms

Looking ahead, The Langham Huntington, Pasadena continues to invest in meaningful ways to serve guests and strengthen its connection with the community. Family-friendly programs like Teddy Bear Tea, Easter egg hunts and scavenger adventures introduce younger generations to the hotel’s charm. Plans are underway for a dedicated kids’ suite—another example of how The Langham makes room for every guest, no matter their age.

“We’re the stewards of this incredible property,” Marks said. “Our goal is to honor its past, elevate the present and create traditions that resonate with generations to come.”

“At East West Bank, we’ve been proud to support The Langham as it continues to reach further,” said Jennifer Cheung, First Vice President at East West Bank. “It’s not just about financing—it’s about helping preserve a place that means so much to the community and ensuring it continues to thrive for years to come.”

Explore The Langham Huntington, Pasadena