Seeing as how my roots are planted in the Bay Area, I’m always excited to hear news about new developments, construction and renovations that make the city by the bay even more of a spectacular place to live or visit.

Recently, Personality Hotels, San Francisco’s largest privately-owned boutique hotel operator, announced the completion of a $2 million guestroom restoration of the grand Kensington Park Hotel. Housed in a gorgeous 1925 Moorish/Gothic style building in the heart of Union Square, Kensington Park Hotel exudes the perfect blend of old-world glamour and now loads of modern luxury.

Kensington Park Hotel is located in a stunning building designed by Frederick H. Meyer and Albin R. Johnson. The groundbreaking for the building took place in 1923, and officially opened in 1925, with construction costs estimated to be more than $1.5 million. It was originally constructed as the lodge for the San Francisco Elks Club, a group of men (and now women) committed to social service and supporting patriotic and civic programs.  In 1984, Kensington Park Hotel moved into share the building, occupying the main lobby and floors five through 12. Post Street Theater, renowned for top performances, is located on the second floor, and Farallon, San Francisco’s most highly-regarded seafood restaurant, is next door.

Interior designer Lisa Sayed styled all 92 guestrooms with a mix of classic, turn-of-the-century elegance. Guestrooms, many with spectacular city views, are bathed in rich jewel tones and sumptuous fabrics. Classic dark wood furnishings are complemented by rich silk drapery, beds with white leather tufted headboards, custom-designed cherry blossom patterned carpeting and sleek white lacquer desks with baroque mirrors. Furthermore, all rooms feature 36” flat screen televisions with satellite service and “Sound Soother” IPod alarm clocks. Oooo, la la.

Designed by Lisa Sayed and Philip Carabello, the spacious Royal Suite was inspired by the great homes of Europe, namely Neuschwanstein, the 19^th century Bavarian palace built by King Ludwig II for German composer Richard Wagner. The spacious suite features an elegant master bedroom with a canopy bed, a formal dining room, a large living room and luxurious touches such as a whirlpool bath, two fireplaces and expansive views overlooking San Francisco’s Union Square. Rich, highly textured fabrics and regal tones of bright blue and deep red pop against soothing white and cream. Zebra carpeting flows throughout the suite, lending a contemporary, cosmopolitan feel. Traditional mahogany woods, a crystal chandelier and a classic antique gold mirror are juxtaposed with surprising modern touches such as silk polka dot curtains, boldly striped chairs and sleek glass vases.

Located in the heart of Union Square, Kensington Park Hotel is surrounded by top restaurants, world-famous shopping, theatres and nightlife. For reservations, call 415.788.6400 or visit www.kensingtonparkhotel.com.

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