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.

Recently the Merchants Exchange purchased 300 mahagony chivari chairs for their clients to enjoy.