San Juan Capistrano is preparing for yet another major development with the proposed French Hotel, a 70-room boutique project that will take over historic adobes. Located at 31861-31871 Camino Capistrano, the project will be considered by the city soon, 926OC reports.
It will span six buildings, featuring a restaurant, event and gathering spaces, fitness and pool areas, and on-site valet parking. The site includes two historically significant adobe structures: the Domingo Yorba Adobe (c. 1830) and Casa Manuel Garcia (c. 1840), both listed on the National Register of Historic Places, according to the National Park Service.
Leading the project is Almquist Development. The company plans to preserve the historic integrity of the adobes while integrating new buildings with modern amenities, and to work with the community to maintain the character and soul of its historic neighborhoods.
Despite these assurances, local reactions have been mixed. Residents expressed concern over modern elements clashing with the town’s historic aesthetic, with one commenting, “My jaw dropped in a negative gasp when I saw the modern rendering. Doesn’t fit the SJC vibe at all! Too bad.”
A public hearing is scheduled for December 3 at 4:30 PM with the City of San Juan Capistrano.
