SAN FRANCISCO—Part of Starwood Hotels & Resorts, The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts with its owner partner, Kyo-ya Hotels & Resorts, has completed the $40-million renovation of The Palace Hotel here.
The hotel features redesigned guestrooms and reimagined public spaces, including the famed Garden Court. The Palace Hotel was once at the center of America’s first Golden Age of Travel, according to Starwood Hotels & Resorts, which inspired the interior redesign led by Beatrice Girelli of indidesign.
The hotel’s 556 guestrooms, including 55 suites, now offer a modern look, complemented by original design elements including crown moldings that frame wrought-iron windows and solid oak doors adorned with brass monogrammed knobs. Dark wood furnishings, mixed metals and artistic lighting juxtapose a color palette of midnight blue, charcoal, dove gray and plum textiles.
Former icons of industry, politics, innovation, aviation and cinema who once stayed at the hotel inspired the guestroom design, according to Starwood. For instance, trim lines, stitching and tailored bed frames recall the details of men’s suiting and speak to the custom-made clothing worn by former guests such as Andrew Carnegie. Complementing the design of the space, feminine details are introduced in the drapery and upholstery, inspired by Sophia Loren. Vintage travel trunks, like those carried by Amelia Earhart, with stitched leather details and chrome accents, inspire nightstands.
Several grand suites have been introduced to the hotel following the renovation, including the Royal Suite and the State Suite. The Royal Suite spans almost 1,000 sq. ft. with city views from curved windows that hug the corner of the suite’s living room. The State Suite is designed to feel like a San Francisco apartment, with natural light that streams through large windows, classically inspired contemporary furnishings, hardwood floors and custom-made area rugs throughout every room.
Situated under archways and coved sky-lit ceilings, the Garden Court has been renovated to reveal two separate dining experiences. In front of the court, The GC Lounge features tufted banquettes, speakeasy seating and a communal table. Inspired by the paned-glass ceiling, bronze paneled screens with antique mirror accents aim to create an intimate and residential feel.