Nestled in San Francisco's historic Nob Hill, the recently revitalized Huntington Hotel offers a captivating journey back in time, meticulously blending Gilded Age splendor with contemporary comforts. Celebrated designer Ken Fulk's visionary touch has transformed this architectural marvel, originally built as luxury apartments in 1922 and converted into a hotel in 1924, into an oasis of refined elegance. Guests are invited to indulge in lavish accommodations, embark on exclusive yacht excursions, savor gourmet dining, and find tranquility at the Nob Hill Spa, all while immersed in an atmosphere that pays homage to its rich heritage and the indomitable spirit of its namesake, Arabella Huntington.
A Grand Reawakening: The Huntington Hotel Experience
Upon arrival at the Huntington Hotel in the venerable Nob Hill district of San Francisco, guests are immediately transported to an era of refined grandeur, a stark contrast to the city's futuristic skyline. The lobby, a masterpiece crafted by the renowned designer Ken Fulk, captivates with its intricate crown molding, sumptuously upholstered velvet furnishings, and antique tapestries, all while friendly staff offer a warm welcome. The hotel, an established landmark since its conversion from luxury apartments in 1924, recently underwent an extensive refurbishment, breathing new life into its historic foundations.
The guest rooms and suites, numbering 71 and 72 respectively, including an expansive 1,500-square-foot penthouse, provide a more contemporary yet equally luxurious experience. Designed with layouts reminiscent of high-end residential flats, they boast generous proportions and an abundance of natural light. The beds, adorned with exceptionally high-thread-count linens, promise unparalleled comfort, complemented by plush robes. Many suites offer breathtaking views of the bay, where the waters shimmer in shades of teal on a clear day, creating an almost surreal sense of floating.
For those seeking an exclusive maritime adventure, the hotel offers private charters aboard the Diamond Seas, a magnificent 92-foot superyacht. Sailing beneath the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and circling the historic Alcatraz, guests can sip champagne, feel the gentle sea breeze, and witness the golden-green hills of Marin. The journey is often graced by the presence of barking sea lions, adding a touch of natural charm to the luxurious outing.
Dining at The Big Four, the hotel's distinguished restaurant, named after the railroad magnates who founded the Central Pacific Railroad, is a culinary delight set within a rich historical ambiance. The dark wood-paneled walls, a green tartan rug, and a collection of antique photographs and portraits evoke a sense of timeless elegance. The private dining room, bathed in a deep California cabernet burgundy, is illuminated by natural light filtering through stained glass, creating an intimate and sophisticated setting. The menu features exquisite dishes such as briny Hog Island oysters, classic chicken pot pie, and a saffron-infused San Francisco cioppino. Adding to the restaurant's unique character are two 18th-century-style sphinx guardians at its entrance.
A sanctuary of serenity awaits on an upper floor at the Nob Hill Spa. Bathed in natural light, the spa features a spacious indoor pool bordered by a terrace, plush loungers, and meticulously appointed changing rooms equipped with saunas and steam rooms. The nail salon, with its soothing clay walls, and treatment rooms offer a range of services, including various facials for sculpting and anti-aging, muscle-relaxing massages like hot stone and lymphatic drainage, and indulgent body treatments such as seaweed wraps and herbal cocoons with singing bowls. A state-of-the-art 1600 sq. ft gym with panoramic city views is also available for those dedicated to their fitness regimen.
Completing the hotel's array of exquisite offerings is Arabella's Cocktail Salon, an intimate 25-seat bar on the first floor. This 'jewel box' of a space, a testament to Ken Fulk's maximalist design aesthetic, features fringed barrel chairs, miniature lamps, and oval sconces casting a warm glow. A mural by local artist Rafael Arana depicting scenes from the life of Gilded Age heiress Arabella Huntington adorns the walls, while a trompe l'oeil cloud ceiling creates an ethereal atmosphere. The elegant bartenders craft a variety of cocktails, catering to diverse preferences, including unique savory concoctions.
The Huntington Hotel, much like its namesake Arabella Huntington, an extraordinary woman who rose from humble beginnings to become one of America's wealthiest and most influential figures, embodies comfort, gravitas, and a unique soul. Her story of resilience, philanthropy, and exquisite taste resonates throughout the hotel, making every stay a luxurious and inspiring experience. And yes, the robes are truly exceptionally fluffy.
The reimagining of the Huntington Hotel serves as a poignant reminder that while the future constantly beckons with its innovations, there remains an enduring allure in the meticulously preserved grandeur of the past. It highlights the importance of respecting historical narratives while seamlessly integrating modern luxury and comfort. This establishment not only provides an exceptional stay but also invites reflection on the lives of those who shaped its legacy, like Arabella Huntington, demonstrating how history, design, and hospitality can converge to create a truly unforgettable experience. It's a testament to the idea that true luxury lies not just in opulence, but in the seamless blend of comfort, character, and a compelling story.