Motel 6’s first property has been reborn with elements of the company’s new Phoenix design. The Motel 6 Santa Barbara Beach (CA), which opened in 1962 with what became the brand’s trademark $6 pricetag, last week celebrated the debut of its new look.

“It’s wonderful to come full circle and witness this historic milestone for our company,” said Olivier Poirot, CEO for Accor North America, Motel 6 and Studio 6. “Santa Barbara is our birthplace, and it’s great to see this property so refreshed and revitalized—ready to take us into the next era of growth with Motel 6.”

The Phoenix prototype was unveiled in March 2008 with an efficient and modern look highlighted by wood-effect laminate flooring made of 80-percent pre-consumer recycled material. Corporate locations in select markets are being renovated with elements of the new bright and open prototype.