Auberge Resorts Collection continues urban expansion with The Hearst Hotel in San Francisco, set to debut in 2023

The reimagining of downtown San Francisco’s iconic Hearst Building sets the stage for a new luxury experience

MILL VALLEY, Calif. (April 28, 2021) – Auberge Resorts Collection, the award-winning portfolio of one-of-a-kind luxury hotels, resorts and residences, announced today it will manage The Hearst Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection, a piece of history in the heart of San Francisco. The downtown property is part of Auberge Resorts Collection’s ongoing strategic expansion into city centers and its commitment to the long-term vibrancy and culture of downtown San Francisco. The Hearst-owned building, a 1911 landmark which is being redeveloped by leading San Francisco real estate investment and development firm, JMA Ventures, will be reborn as The Hearst Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection. The hotel, in this iconic building with more than a century of fascinating stories to tell, will redefine luxury and inspire a new experience in the City by the Bay when it opens in 2023.

The Hearst Hotel is ideally situated at the intersection of Market Street and Third Street, where its newfound vibrancy and contemporary hospitality will create a dynamic social hub that captivates travelers and locals. Its unique blend of tradition and innovation will reflect the dramatic narrative and changing fortunes of San Francisco. The neighborhood in which it is situated has long been known for its architectural grandeur and historic significance alongside a modern mix of shopping, business and award-wining dining experiences.

Built in 1911 and home to the San Francisco Examiner until the 1960s, The Hearst Building features Spanish Revival style construction, Tennessee Pink marble on the lower floors and a terra cotta façade reaching to the roof parapet. In 1938, famed architect Julia Morgan was retained by Hearst to complete a remodel of the entryway, the façade—which showcases 20 cast bronze medallions of fanciful animals and a distinctive crest above the front entry—and other notable architectural details. Morgan, who was born in the Bay Area and was Hearst’s principal architect on the design of Hearst Castle, was a pioneer in her field, having been the first woman to receive the American Institute of Architects’ highest award, the AIA Gold Medal and her work continues to inspire today.

Following an extensive interior renovation and redesign, the 13-story landmarked building will open as The Hearst Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection, a 150-room hotel, complete with an Auberge Spa, grand lobby, social spaces, destination restaurant and rooftop bar with a unique perspective of the city. Among the guest accommodations will be 14 suites.

The hotel will be conceptualized and designed by Roman and Williams—the acclaimed design team behind Nantucket’s Greydon House, Chicago Athletic Association, The RW Guild, La Mercerie and Le Coucou in New York—and will reflect relaxed, eclectic West Coast living and harken back to Hearst’s interest in European design. Strong classical lines, textured palazzo floors, eclectic furniture and architectural elements inspired by Hearst’s antique collection will be at the heart of The Hearst Hotel’s style. Roman and Williams will honor the iconic architecture of the building while bringing this extraordinary hotel to life for the next generation of world travelers.

“Auberge has mastered the art of creating new life in historic buildings, preserving their unique character while elevating them with the contemporary comforts and experiences that are relevant to today’s discerning travelers,” said Dan Friedkin, chairman, Auberge Resorts Collection. “As we continue to expand our portfolio, we are very excited to partner with JMA Ventures to bring the one-of-a-kind experience of The Hearst Hotel to the dynamic city of San Francisco.”

“Our hotels feel like a beautifully designed home inspired by the place,” added Craig Reid, president and chief executive officer, Auberge Resorts Collection. “The Hearst Hotel will be a home away from home that immerses guests in the traditions and rich culture of San Francisco. It will raise the bar on luxury in the city and create a new gathering place for the city’s locals.”

“JMA Ventures is excited to partner with Auberge Resorts Collection, whose award-winning reputation sets the standard for luxury hospitality,” said Todd Chapman, CEO, JMA Ventures. “Auberge Resorts Collection’s forward-thinking vision complements the building’s heritage to make a beautiful conceptual frame for a modern hotel.”

In 2020, Auberge Resorts opened Commodore Perry Estate, Auberge Resorts Collection in Austin and Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection in Hawaii to the acclaim of top hotel travel and design awards. This year, the brand will open six hotels including: Bishop’s Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection in Santa Fe, N.M., The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern, Auberge Resorts Collection in Los Olivos, Calif., Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection in Napa Valley, Calif., Etéreo, Auberge Resorts Collection in Riviera Maya, Mexico, Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection in Costa Rica, and Susurros del Corazón, Auberge Resorts Collection in Punta de Mita, Mexico. Auberge will also debut significant transformations of several existing properties this year, including Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection in Napa Valley, Calif., Madeline Hotel & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection in Telluride, Colo., and The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection in Newport, R.I.

The Hearst Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection will open in 2023. For more information, please visit auberge-beta.kingandpartners.com/thehearsthotel.

About Auberge Resorts Collection

Auberge Resorts Collection is a portfolio of extraordinary hotels, resorts, residences and private clubs. While each property is unique, all share a crafted approach to luxury and bring the soul of the locale to life through captivating design, exceptional cuisine, innovative spas and gracious yet unobtrusive service. With 19 hotels and resorts across three continents and eight new hotels under development, Auberge invites guests to create unforgettable stories in some of the world’s most desirable destinations. For more information: auberge-beta.kingandpartners.com
Connect with Auberge Resorts Collection on Facebook Twitter and Instagram @AubergeResorts and #AlwaysAuberge

About The Friedkin Group
The Friedkin Group is a privately-held consortium of automotive, hospitality, entertainment, sports and adventure companies. These organizations include: Gulf States Toyota, GSFSGroup, US AutoLogistics, Ascent Automotive Group, Auberge Resorts Collection, AS Roma, Imperative Entertainment, 30WEST, NEON, Diamond Creek Golf Club, Congaree and Legendary Expeditions. The Friedkin Group is led by Chairman and CEO Dan Friedkin. For more information, visit www.friedkin.com.

About JMA
JMA is a full-service investment and development firm focusing on real estate and leisure-lifestyle assets. JMA works on every project scope from concept and entitlement through completion and operation. Founded in 1986 and based in San Francisco, JMA has focused on delivering superior risk-adjusted returns to its investors while providing quality products and improving the communities and environments in which the firm conducts its business. The company’s portfolio includes landmark properties that span hospitality, resort, destination, residential, retail, office and commercial developments, including marquee San Francisco hospitality development such as the historic redevelopment of the Fairmont Ghirardelli Square and pioneering waterfront restaurants Epic and Waterbar. For more information, see http://jmaventuresllc.com/ and www.linkedin.com/company/jma-ventures/

Media Contact
Murphy O’Brien
aubergeteam@murphyobrien.com