The Alcazar has been a stately presence in the City of Cleveland Heights for more than 85 years.  Built in 1923 the majestic architecture and eclectic Spanish/Moorish design have distinguished this residential facility as a unique place of comfort and beauty.

Harry T. Jeffrey designed the Alcazar, whose name means, “Home in a fortress.” Mr. Jeffrey teamed up with fellow Clevelanders Kent Smith and George Hale to complete the two-year construction.  Inspiration for the design of Cleveland’s Alcazar came from Mr. Hale’s favorite vacation spot, St. Augustine, Florida’s Alcazar and Ponce de Leon hotel as well as Alcazar in Seville, Spain.

Cleveland Heights’ Alcazar is a five story irregular pentagon whose fortress surrounds a lush botanical courtyard complete with a large fountain in its center.  The architectural detail of this magnificent structure attracts admirers far and wide.  Mr. Hale himself traveled extensively throughout Spain, selecting the 14 tile patterns found in the expansive lobby.

When The Alcazar opened in 1923, the hotel quickly became the place to dine, dance and be seen at Cleveland’s most chic address.  The local elite, dignitaries and celebrities were frequent guests.  Entertainer Bob Hope kept a residence here, as did composer Cole Porter, who reportedly wrote his hit “Night and Day,” while in residence.  Even Tarzan himself, Johnny Weissmuller kept house in one of the gracious apartments with his sweetheart, actress Lupe Velez. 

Throughout the 1940’s and 1950’s The Alcazar continued to be a favorite choice for Clevelanders.  The dining, dancing and entertainment was unparalleled.  By the late 1950’s The Alcazar saw a steep decline in patronage.  The building was not kept up in its shining splendor and families who once frequented this elegant establishment were moving to the suburbs.

In 1963 a small group of Christian Scientists incorporated Western Reserve Residences a nonprofit entity and purchased The Alcazar.  This group had a vision to   provide elegant housing for independent Christian Science seniors.  Western Reserve Residences quickly expanded this idea to include any senior of any faith.  Today, the Senior Residents enjoy a cultural, racial and religious mix.  The atmosphere at The Alcazar exudes inclusiveness and warmth.

From 1963 through 2004 The Alcazar operated as a Senior Independent Living Residence as well as a hotel.   In January of 2004 an obscure law was enforced requiring Western Reserve Residences to choose between Senior Living and the hotel license.  True to the initial purpose of the early founders of Western Reserve Residences, Inc.  The Alcazar willingly gave up the hotel business.

Today, The Alcazar is allowed, under state law to offer Bed and Breakfast accommodations as well as Corporate Housing along with Senior Residential Living.  We are pleased to join these three diverse groups together under one roof.  The eclectic mix of generations, backgrounds, homelands and interests enlivens our Lobby, enriches the lives of many and contributes to the colorful fabric of The Alcazar.

Another noteworthy item of interest is that The Alcazar is still the site of many special events, concerts, weddings, parties, lectures and dinners.  The Alcazar of old may have had to weather many challenges; however the mission of The Alcazar is as strong as the fortress name.