A $43 million development is the first Element by Westin Marriott property in San Diego County. Element Mission Valley expands Marriott’s wellness-focused extended-stay hotel brand in the region.

The seven-story, 150-key property sits at 8757 Rio San Diego Drive on the site of a former event facility adjacent to Marriott Mission Valley. Architecture and design firm AO designed the hotel, while R.D. Olson Construction Group built the project for developer Driftwood Capital.

The 9,100 m² (98,000 sf) hotel’s location is minutes from Old Town, Balboa Park, and Mission Bay. The property also offers convenient access to Interstate 8 and the San Diego MTS Green Line trolley.

The hotel is designed to reflect both the Element brand and San Diego’s character.

“We created a design that not only integrates effortlessly but also reflects the authentic character of San Diego and aligns with a global brand,” says Bruce Greenfield, partner at AO.

“Element Mission Valley is a product of close collaboration,” says Bill Wilhelm, president and CEO of R.D. Olson Construction. “We were able to build a thriving property and connect it to the Marriott Mission Valley to immerse guests in a holistic hospitality experience.”

Sustainable materials

The project team constructed a concrete podium topped by five stories of wood-frame construction. The hybrid system helped the project meet California Title 24 energy-efficiency requirements while incorporating sustainable building materials.

The hotel delivers a residential-style experience, offering guest rooms, studios, one-bedroom suites, and conference suites designed for both short- and extended-stay travelers.

Amenities include a 492 m² (5,300 sf) ballroom located near the main arrival area. The ballroom opens directly to a shared courtyard and outdoor breakout serving both hotel properties.

Project partners included structural engineer Ficcadenti Waggoner and Castle, civil engineer Kimley-Horn, MEP engineer RTM Engineering, and interior designer Linda Snyder Associates.