Celebrity designer Kelly Wearstler has built a career on breaking the rules. Her maximalist style is eclectic, offbeat and always interesting, eschewing foolproof formulas for daring design moves with big payoffs. Her recent high-profile project, the San Francisco Proper Hotel, is a kaleidoscope of color. There are wow-worthy design moments in every corner, making this historic hotel a true treat to stay in. Click through for a virtual tour of the space, and discover 15 of our favorite design moments.
Kelly knows how to use a variety of different hues in one open-concept space, and this approach works wonders in the San Francisco Proper’s large lobby. She ties together the palette with one common theme; similar furniture silhouettes make the space look cohesive.
In this lobby seating area, two vintage lamps throw off the symmetry and contribute to the eclectic look. Their varying heights and shapes are complemented by the gallery wall behind.
Mid-century modern sconces mingle with ornate moldings in the hotel’s impressive lobby.
Eye-catching groupings of art pop against the lobby’s expansive white walls. Kelly incorporated pieces from local Bay Area artists Jonathan Anzalone and Joseph Ferriso.
The San Francisco Proper is evidence of Kelly’s masterful pattern mixing. To keep the look cohesive, she combines different scales and sets everything against white walls.
One of the first thing guests see when they enter the hotel, the front desk welcomes with its warm orange-red hue. Kelly and her team created interest and texture in the gallery wall by interspersing the art with 3D sculpture and curiosities.
One of the things that makes the design at the San Francisco Proper so unique is the abundance of vintage and one-of-a-kind pieces. Kelly and her team had them reupholstered in sumptuous fabrics to give them a new lease on life.
Kelly honored the space’s history when designing the circa-1907 lobby. Restored by local artisans, it features period details such as Corinthian columns, intricate elevator doors and marble floors.
Villon, the lobby’s restaurant, is a feast for the eyes. Dreamy textured blue walls and cloud-like light fixtures let the checkered floors shine.
Natural wood panelling and bold patterned wallpaper envelop Villon’s private dining room, which looks like a fabulous place for a (very exclusive) party.
Charmaine’s, the 3,400-square-foot rooftop bar and lounge, delights with its dramatic design. Floor-to-ceiling windows and sheer drapes create a serene backdrop to all the opulence.
On the rooftop’s outdoor patio, the bold black and white striped chairs hold their own against the sparkling San Francisco skyline.
Space is at a premium in San Francisco, so Kelly made the most of every square foot in the suites by layering in pattern. Unlike the public spaces, the palette in these bedrooms is mostly neutral and serene.
The suites feature Aesop bath products and incredibly soft Bellino Fine Linens for a stay you won’t soon forget.
In this maximalist premiere suite, a solid blue piece of artwork gives the eye a place to rest, and acts as a reminder of the room’s unconventional aesthetic, as if the original blue wall from a bygone era is peeking out from behind the wallpaper.
Author: Adena Leigh
Photographer: Courtesy of San Francisco Proper