San Francisco’s Historic Sir Francis Drake Makes Its Return as The Beacon Grand

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For nearly a century, the Sir Francis Drake hotel stood watch over San Francisco’s Union Square, offering visitors and locals alike a one-of-a-kind hospitality experience. When the iconic property closed its doors during the pandemic, some feared the end of an era. But earlier this summer, fans of the site were delighted to see the historic hotel begin a brand new chapter as the newly independent Beacon Grand.

Photo courtesy of Northview Hotel Group
Photo courtesy of Northview Hotel Group

Celebrating the landmark’s legacy and reclaiming its original mission to serve as a social center in the heart of the city, the Beacon Grand commemorates the building’s unique architecture and artisanship while featuring modern sensibilities, services, and amenities. In addition to newly activated social spaces like the Beacon Lounge and The Library, a forthcoming restaurant from a high-profile California restauranteur and a reimagined Starlite Room atop the hotel by the award-winning Bill Rooney Studio are set to open next year.

Photo courtesy of Northview Hotel Group
Photo courtesy of Northview Hotel Group

Kraig Kalashian of the hospitality design and architecture studio KKAD led the extensive renovation and redesign of all public spaces and 418 guest rooms, with the primary goal of honoring and celebrating the majesty of the Renaissance Revival building while uncovering the public spaces and architectural details hidden over time. 

Photo courtesy of Northview Hotel Group

At the entrance of the Beacon Grand is the central staircase to the lobby, featuring original architectural highlights including three chandeliers, marble flooring, and 30-foot-high ceilings.

Overlooking the lobby is the hotel’s mezzanine which serves as social gathering spot with a signature bar, and the original, restored fireplace and mantle. A color palette of warm tones and neutrals complements the design choices including intricate moldings, hand-made rod-iron railings, and inlaid ceilings.

Photo courtesy of Northview Hotel Group

All 418 guest rooms and suites have been fully renovated, with finishes including European Oak hardwood floors, railroad shower tile, and custom-made wallpapers. Each piece of furniture has been customized to maximize flow through each room and the spaces include vanities, seating, built-in closets, custom furnishings, and San Francisco-centric custom wallpaper.

Photo courtesy of Northview Hotel Group

The Beacon Grand is located at 450 Powell Street, in Union Square. For additional information or to make a reservation, please visit www.beacongrand.com or call (866) 377-9412.