April 26, 2019

San Francisco is known for its iconic architecture and historic sights, and this year’s Decorator Showcase project – opening this week – was no exception. The designers were challenged to renovate a historic 18,000-sq-ft. mansion, which was also a San Francisco Landmark listed with the National Register of Historic Places.

The home was built in 1904 for Marcus and Cora Koshland, a prominent family that made a fortune in wool and textiles, and it was modeled about Le Petit Trianon at the Palace Versailles in Paris. After it was completed, the Koshlands opened with a lavish Marie Antoinette costume ball, setting the stage for a future with many concerts and performances.

The home features nine bedrooms and eight bathrooms, as well as large entertaining rooms with hardwood floors, wood-beamed ceilings and intricate crown molding and ceiling treatments. The Presidio and San Francisco Bay can be seen from the upper floors.

Designer Julie Rootes of Corte Madera, Calif.-based Julie Rootes Interior Design was charged with renovating one of the bathrooms, which she named L’espace Tranquil for its peaceful yet elegant appeal.  The space juxtaposes Pierre Frey floral wallcoverings, shell sconces and a marble accent wall for a mix of historical and modern charm. KBB spoke with Rootes to find out more about her design.

KBB: What was your goal in this space?
Rootes: I wanted to keep in line with the architecture of the home while adding a fresh twist. The objective was to incorporate architectural details to elevate the space by mixing modern with traditional.

KBB: What was your inspiration?
Rootes: I looked to the bathrooms you see in Paris, in the historic hotels like the Le Meurice and the Hotel de Crillon.

KBB: What materials did you use to accomplish your goals?
Rootes: I used a mixture of marble, metals and woods.  The patterned hardwood floor pairs nicely against all the marble, adding a touch of warmth to the space. I had the shower enclosure faux finished to give it richness and dimension. The bevel details and marble-encased vanity provide architectural interest, and the wallcovering pulled it all together.  

Proceeds from the annual San Francisco Decorator Showcase benefit San Francisco University High School’s financial aid program. Over the last 40 years in running, the showcase has raised more than 16 million to offer financial aid to students in need.