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Designed by architect Julia Morgan, the
former Merchants Exchange Club, with its barrel-vaulted lobby and its classic
Beaux Arts architectural style and decor, still reflects the grandeur of the
early 20th century. The large arched windows in the ballroom match the mirrors across the room, and the pattern
of the ornate ceiling is reflected in the carpet design.
During the latest remodeling the carpeting and drapery were replaced with
custom-designed fabrics of gold and rosy hues, but kept intact the old beauty
of the club with its warm, mahogany paneled walls and coffered ceiling. The
huge, sandstone working fireplace has carvings of a Phoenix, the insignia of
the Commercial Club, and the four major insignias of the merchant trade. A
25-foot mahogany bar dominates the lounge. Walk through the lounge to the
lobby, where there is another working fireplace, a perfect spot for taking time out from
the buzz of the party. Several smaller conference rooms also can be used changing rooms, or to entertain guests. The large kitchen is available to
properly licensed and insured caterers.
When you rent the club, you will get
red carpet treatment. Stepping out of the elevators into the lobby, you will
be welcomed by the warm atmosphere enhanced by a fire
in the large fireplace. Two ushers in dark blue
blazers and white gloves greet you. Linda Hylen, one of the most beloved and acclaimed
event professionals in the San Francisco Bay Area, will make sure that this
will be a fantastic celebration, remembered by all participants for a
lifetime. Linda is the new Director of Events; she worked at the Kohl
Mansion for the past 10 years where she helped her corporate clients and
hundreds of brides to fulfill their dreams. Now she brings her vast
knowledge and experience to the Merchants Exchange Club. "This is such a
great space, you can use it for large and smaller events. It's absolutely
magical during the nights when the lights of San Francisco shine through the
windows," she told me.
See also:
Remembering Italy
Before you book a location