Situated just moments away from the bustling Union Square in San Francisco is The Clift Royal Sonesta, a renowned hotel that seamlessly blends vintage 19th-century vibes with modern 21st-century enhancements.
A significant fixture in downtown San Francisco, The Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel was originally constructed for the Panama–Pacific International Exposition, a global exhibition that took place in the city in 1915 to commemorate the completion of the Panama Canal. Beyond its historical value, the hotel stood as a symbol of resilience and rejuvenation following the 1906 earthquake, offering hope for the future and a reflection on past achievements. Established by Frederick C. Clift, the hotel has continued to evolve over time, attracting visitors from all corners of the globe.
Recent renovations and updates at The Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel pay tribute to its century-old heritage while embracing the modern amenities and conveniences of contemporary life. The refreshed ambiance combines classic elements with the charm of San Francisco, boasting revamped guest rooms, a new modern lobby experience, and much more – all within the vibrant heart of the city.
Featuring 372 elegantly appointed rooms, junior suites, and one-bedroom suites, including the Spanish Suite & Terrace – a private accommodation ideal for intimate gatherings. Each lodging is equipped with distinct work and dining areas, a stocked minibar, environmentally-friendly controls for energy conservation, 50-inch in-room televisions with STAYCAST™ powered by Google Chromecast, enabling streaming from personal devices, in-room laptop safes, Keurig coffee makers with locally sourced blends, and spacious bathrooms complete with hair dryers, rain showers, and magnifying makeup mirrors.
The artistic flair showcased in the guest rooms and hallways draws inspiration from the Pan American Pacific International Exposition of 1915, reminiscing the origins of The Clift as an accommodation tailored for expo attendees. Capturing the essence of lifestyle icons from the early 1900s, these visual narratives are presented in a contemporary fashion.
All guestrooms and suites have been revamped to exhibit a refined color palette and textures, exuding a handcrafted aesthetic that complements the rooms’ warmth and luxurious sophistication. The bathrooms have been expanded and updated with new plumbing fixtures and finishes, featuring iconic black and white tiles reminiscent of historic San Francisco architecture.
The design approach extends beyond the fusion of classic and modern aesthetics, as envisioned by Gensler, a multidisciplinary architecture and design firm. Drawing inspiration from a historic George A. Applegarth home, the original architect of The Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel, the design team embraced residential tones and palettes throughout the property. With public spaces and guest rooms reflecting the hotel’s original essence, a subtle homage to the Panama–Pacific International Exposition is evident.
The lobby’s design ethos aims to create a welcoming and luminous atmosphere, ensuring guests feel at ease. Adorned with oak panels reminiscent of sturdy ship decks, the lobby houses a majestic gas fireplace accentuated by pale terrazzo surroundings. The lobby’s striking terrazzo floors pay tribute to the grand hotels of the 1920s and 30s, while custom-crafted front office pods and concierge desk add functionality and elegance to the space.
Radiating a brighter ambiance, the lobby features warm neutrals with driftwood accents, charcoal grays, and touches of metallic bronze. Complemented by new furnishings, the space seamlessly transitions into the inviting Living Room, offering a variety of seating options for work or relaxation. The Living Room’s tones harmonize with the open and inviting lobby environment.
The renowned “Big Chair” captivates guests of all ages, serving as a popular backdrop for memorable photo opportunities.
Revamped meeting spaces have been imbued with modern enhancements and increased natural light. The former Velvet Room dining area has been repurposed into an adaptable event and meeting venue, equipped with new lighting and A/V technology. Maintaining the redwood paneling, the space now features light neutral-colored walls and blackout shades for optimal screen visibility. The Mezzanine Level meeting rooms received updated lighting and ceilings, fostering connectivity with the hotel’s surroundings and enhancing natural light exposure. The Fraser Event Space accommodates up to twenty-six participants, offering motorized shades for flexible lighting control and a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces.
On the second floor, the 24-hour fitness center boasts a Peloton Bike and a selection of exercise equipment for guests’ convenience.
An iconic hotspot in San Francisco’s nightlife scene, the Redwood Room retains its distinctive redwood walls and sophisticated lighting, complemented by new furniture and flooring inspired by the Art Deco era. The bar, crafted from an 800-year-old redwood tree, adds a touch of historic grandeur to the space, while refurbished Gustav Klimt paintings exude timeless elegance.
Fredericks, an in-house culinary destination overseen by Executive Chef Dan Corey, offers a diverse menu ranging from high-end coffee selections to gourmet pastries, snacks, comfort food, and a range of beverages. The restaurant’s classic black and white flooring sets the tone for an immersive dining experience, with cozy seating options for quick bites or leisurely meals.
In a commitment to sustainability, The Clift hosts ten beehives on its rooftop as part of the city’s conservation efforts, producing honey used in craft cocktails and culinary creations. Additionally, the hotel welcomes pets, ensuring a pet-friendly experience for guests.
Image Source: TripAdvisor
