With the exciting opening of Pixar Place Hotel at Disneyland Resort, we’re taking a closer look at the incredible cast members behind its unique Pixar-themed experience. From never-before-seen artwork to pixelated costumes and detailed design elements, these creative minds have helped shape the first fully Pixar-themed hotel in the United States.
A Vision of Art and Animation
From the moment guests enter Pixar Place Hotel, they are greeted with vibrant artwork and stunning design elements inspired by Pixar’s most beloved characters. Walt Disney Imagineering art director Kirstin Makela played a key role in bringing this vision to life, incorporating dynamic textures and rich graphics into every corner of the hotel.
“We had so much fun working closely with our Pixar partners to bring this incredible artwork to our guests,” Kirstin shared. “There are so many special touches that haven’t been seen before.”
Costumes That Tell a Story
The hotel’s immersive theming extends beyond decor—it even influences cast member costumes! Yonit Olshan, costume designer at Disneyland Resort, collaborated with Pixar artists to craft eye-catching pixelated designs that reflect Pixar’s animation process.
“It’s the smallest inspiration point of digital art,” Yonit explained. “The pixel pattern on bell service costumes is a spark of animation that greets guests upon arrival.”
At the front desk, cast members wear costumes inspired by Pixar’s color strips. A nod to the way animators visualize the creative process. Christine Donegan, front desk lead, described the significance:
“We are literally wearing a piece of Pixar,” Christine said. “Knowing how much thought went into these designs makes it even more special.”
Honoring Pixar’s Iconic Characters
Housekeeping and custodial cast members wear costumes featuring beloved Pixar characters, emphasizing their key role in maintaining the hotel’s magic. Room attendant Susanna Mercado expressed her excitement about the transformation:
“From ‘Toy Story’ to ‘Elemental,’ we’re bringing these characters to life, not just in the decor, but in our costumes as well. It’s a huge privilege.”
Beyond their daily tasks, cast members go the extra mile to create magical moments for guests. Susanna shared one of her favorite ways to spread joy:
“I love arranging kids’ toys and leaving handwritten notes in rooms—it’s one of the best parts of my job.”
Decades of Dedication
For some cast members, this hotel represents years of history. Luis Chavez, operations associate coordinator with housekeeping, has witnessed multiple transformations of the property during his 28-year Disney career.
“I started here when it was the Disneyland Pacific Hotel, then saw it become Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel, and now Pixar Place Hotel. Being part of this journey is an incredible experience.”
A New Chapter for Disneyland Resort
As the first fully Pixar-themed hotel in the U.S. Pixar Place Hotel celebrates the art, storytelling, and innovation of Pixar Animation Studios. Thanks to talented cast members, guests will be immersed in a world where animation meets hospitality.
Are you ready to experience Pixar magic like never before? We can’t wait to welcome you to Pixar Place Hotel!
