Renaissance-Stanford Court

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Citysearch

The Scene
Located on the Powell Street cable car line, this hotel projects an image of refined luxury. The "Court" in its name refers to the courtyard automobile entrance, which flaunts a large, stained-glass dome over a fountain. The almost-hidden covered entrance is as discreet as they come, leading into an intimate marble lobby that is uncluttered yet inviting.

The Details
The 400 rooms are large and comfortable, and you may feel as if you're staying in a fine, old Virginia country house. A $6 million refurbishment in 2000 added cushy but more modern furnishings, with Asian accessories and calming color schemes in cool blue or leaf green. Bathrooms have towel warmers and a small TV. Suites are dressed with original antiques. Details matter here--complimentary coffee and newspaper arrive at your door every morning. Public spaces include a beautiful ballroom, a lovely bar and Fournou's Ovens restaurant.