Rooms available include one queen bed, two double beds, or two twin beds. Every room has its own private bathroom with either a bathtub or shower, a mini fridge and honor bar, satellite TV, as well as a phone and radio. Each room is uniquely decorated Victorian style, outfitted with cozy linens and antique style furniture.
The Hotel Beresford offers a complimentary breakfast hosted in the adjoining White Horse Tavern & Restaurant, free in-room Wi-Fi, and an exercise room. For an additional fee, there is valet parking or limo service. There are also fax and copy services available and a computer for guest use.
Just two blocks from Union Square, Hotel Beresford is located in the heart of downtown San Francisco’s Tenderloin neighborhood. Brimming with boutiques, a variety of dining options ranging from gourmet to casual, quaint terrace cafes, art galleries, and nightlife, there’s no shortage of entertainment nearby. Chinatown and the renowned Theatre District are a short walk away, as are cable cars that will take you to popular destinations such as Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39, and Telegraph Hill.
This family owned hotel is great for budget travelers who don’t want to compromise on location, charm, or entertainment. Hotel Beresford is one of the best deals in downtown San Francisco, leaving guests more room to enjoy all that this dynamic neighborhood has to offer.
Read article : House Tour: A Contemporary, Classic Cape Town Rental
Name: Melissa and James Lawrence Location: Vredehoek, Cape Town, South Africa Size: 1184 square feet Years lived in: 2 years, renting
Cape Town-based interior designer Melissa and her husband James didn't want to invest a ton of money in this home since they are renting it. But because Melissa is in the interior design field, they knew exactly what could to be done to enhance the space and in a cost effective way. They've been able to cleverly add their own touches to their rental apartment, creating a space that feels like home.
The first task was to tackle the flooring, which was originally dark brown and in a poor condition. The light whitewashed floors that you see now required a lot of work, but the result is a brighter, more contemporary look they both love.
Melissa and James love entertaining so updating the kitchen was a must — and the space needed a major overhaul and some serious TLC. The cupboards were originally a mix of dark wood and grubby white, and so fresh white paint was an obvious choice. They also added pine door knobs for an inexpensive and easy update. James made the overhead copper utensil hanger (which creates a great focal point) and they added cut vinyl to spruce up the existing white tiles. This is also where Melissa spends time producing her soy candles for her Melissa Louise label.
Their apartment goes to show that with just a few clever DIYs and design savvy thinking, you can easily revamp a rental space. Just remember to get your landlord's approval before you start!
Our Style:Our style has evolved over the years, from the eclectic mix of furniture that we first accumulated when we moved in together to now investing in classic furniture pieces that will last. We tend to gravitate to an overall contemporary look and feel with classic details.
Inspiration:As an interior designer, it is my job to stay up to date and be relevant; I am always inspired by the work of my favorite designers. Instagram and Pinterest are great tools for staying relevant and storing beautiful content that inspires.
Favorite Element:Melissa: Our high ceilings and the natural light that pours into every room. Often inner-city apartments can feel small and cramped; I love that our apartment feels light and spacious.
James:The lounge. It's where we unwind and watch series, play PlayStation and most importantly drink wine and socialize with our friends when they are over.
Biggest Challenge:The defined layout of our apartment. The closed floor plan means each room is separated from the others by walls and hallways. Hallways tend to be narrow and often have very little character.
What Friends Say:We aim to have a warm and comfortable home for our family and friends. Our friends echo this, as most nights are enjoyed over dinner and wine or even movies and popcorn.
Biggest Embarrassment:Melissa: Our bathrooms! They are outdated and tired, we have run over the finances but it simply isn't viable to do any major alterations to a rental property. Also sloppy workmanship in the past has left our vintage black cisterns speckled with paint...
James:Our bathroom! It's so old and I wish we could renovate and make it one large wet room! The bath isn't big enough for me, so a walk-in shower would be great!
Proudest DIY: Melissa: When we moved in, our floors were chocolate brown and worn through in places; they were in desperate need of attention! Having a creative eye I saw the potential they had when we first viewed the apartment. James and I sanded, treated and sealed the floors of the apartment ourselves, while living in the space. It was a tough two weeks, but it has really transformed the space and was SO worth it.
James:I made the copper utility hanger above our kitchen counter; a few trips to builders warehouse and there you have it. Super simple, but effective!
Biggest Indulgence:Melissa:Our five-plate gas stove and electric oven. We love entertaining, this was one of the best investments!
James:Our TV.
Best Advice: A lick of paint makes ALL the difference! It is a cost effective way to update a space, making it feel fresh and brand new!
ENTRANCE Stokholm sideboard – MRP Home Aztec reversible rug — H&M Home Basket — Milnerton Market. Tall Basket with lid — Community upliftment program bought when Melissa was in high school Light — Ikea, gifted to us by friends who were relocating
LIVING AREA Sofa — @Home living space Standing angle poise lamp — Weylandts Beni Ourain inspired rug — MRP Home Ladder shelf — @Home living space Glass coffee table — MRP Home Round side table — Superbalist Curtains — Woolworths Round mirror above electric fireplace — MRP Home Sewing machine — Vintage piece, handed down from James' grandmother. Duros Armchair — vintage shop Large white pot —M RP Home
BEDROOM Bed — YouMeHome Bedding — H&M Home Oval mirror — Vintage store in Woodstock Sullivan hoop — Hooped by Sue Britz Lamp base — Milnerton Market Jewellery stand — MRP Home
KITCHEN Stokholm dining table — @Home living space Chairs — Chair Crazy Clock — MRP Home Fake plants — SuperFloral Metallic plant pots — Simply Home Gold candle holder — Home and Giftware Pop up shop at the V&A Striped runner — MRP Home Copper book stand — Handmade by a family friend and gifted to us. Wooden chopping board — Ikea Copper book stand: Handmade by a family friend and gifted to us." Teapot — Le Creuset Patterned vinyl — Designed and applied by Frizzy Diamond Diamond hanging pot plant — Typo
STUDY Chairs — Chair Crazy Desk — Trestle legs and pine top bought at Timber City You're a gem hoop — Hooped by Sue Britz
Read article : Where to Stay in Antwerp: The Best Hotels and Neighborhoods
To help you out with the decision where to stay in Antwerp, we’ve put together a list of neigbourhoods and the best hotels in the city.
Antwerp is often left out when planning a trip to Belgium. Touristy cities like Brussels or Bruges easily obscure trendy towns of Antwerp or recently re-discovered Ghent.
However, from what we’ve experienced in Antwerp, it’s a vibrant, extraordinarily creative city full of history, so you’re doing yourself a favor by staying here longer, and exploring it for more than a day away from Brussels.
This is one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Antwerp if your goal is to catch up with sightseeing. The old town is full of museums, lively squares, and a number of cafes, restaurants, and beautifully renovated bed & breakfasts in historical houses.
The area is very walkable, and you can easily access the riverbank. It’s also safe and quiet at night.
We stayed in this family-run boutique hotel for three nights, only a minute walk from the main square Grote Markt.
The luxurious interior with elegant decoration made us feel comfortable, as well as the immense space in the bedroom and bathroom. Hot tub, solid wooden writing table and sofa were also part of the room. Our room faced a small courtyard and a garden, so it was absolutely quiet during the whole day.
The breakfast is served in the dining room furnished with antique plates and furniture. If you’re looking for some insider tips on the city, ask the owners. They are extremely helpful, and knowledgeable, since Carl has worked at one of Antwerp’s museums. Check the latest price.
Luxury > Hotel ‘T Sandt Spotless, spacious rooms with an incredibly homey touch. The suites and rooms are bright thanks to big windows. Excellent location near the Grote Markt, good breakfast included. Check the latest price.
Mid-range > Aplace Antwerp City Flats & Suites Very tastefully decorated rooms and apartments in vintage style with modern elements. Apartments also feature a fully equipped kitchen. Pets allowed. Check the latest price.
Budget > Kathedraallogies Drie Koningen Unusual and affordable bed & breakfast in the historical center of Antwerp. You can choose from rooms with shared or private bathrooms. The property is a renovated building from the 16th century. Check the latest price.
Het Zuid is well connected to the city center and train station by public transport. We stayed here for a few nights and loved it here for its laid back vibes and a running path along the river.
In case you prefer cooking your own food and are hoping for some privacy, The Soul would be the best place to stay in Het Zuid. Modern studio with vintage interior offers an equipped kitchenette with a dining corner and comfy sofa, (which we found great after walking the city all day).
The apartment is located right in the heart of the south district, surrounded by many cafes and restaurants. By the way, you can grab a coffee, breakfast or lunch at the atmospheric Soul Cafe. In case you decide to cook, there is a big grocery shop within 5 minutes walking.
Our studio was clean, with a separated bedroom, bright seating area with a dining table and kitchenware, and a private bathroom. The place is also run by welcoming and easygoing owners. Check the latest price.
Luxury > The Glorious Inn In case you’re wishing for some extraordinary place to stay in Antwerp, check it out here. Thematically decorated rooms, classy furniture, and a very quiet location.
We stayed here only a night, but enjoyed the funky atmosphere of the room with a Sleeping Beauty theme. We won’t spoil the surprise, but the room was full of secret hints related to the fairy tale. You better come and check for yourself.
It featured a large and very comfy bed, a tea table with plenty of herbal choices. The highlight of the room was a bathroom with an enormous bathtub, candles, and high-quality toiletries.
Spoil yourself, and if you come during the week, make sure to have dinner in their restaurant downstairs. Check the latest price.
Mid-range > Maison Emile Stylish, modern, and clean rooms with a rich healthy breakfast. It features double and single bedrooms. Check the latest price.
Budget > Le Sud Very affordable and clean budget option with different types of rooms with shared or private bathrooms. Check the latest price.
The area near the Central Station is the oldest diamond center in Europe, and rumour has it they were playing around with diamonds long before the first traders in Hong Kong or New York.
Stay around on Friday or Saturday, and you’ll see the Jewish community walking to and from the synagogues here. Currently, more than 80% of the Jews in Antwerp are involved in the diamond trade.
There are more than 1500 companies involved in selling, cutting, and polishing diamonds in the city, and you can check out some of them on Pelkinstraat Street near the railway station, or in the boutique shops on the Appelmansstraat, Lange Herentalsestraat and Vestingstraat streets.
Always ask for the GIA (Gemological Institute of America) grading report when buying a gem. Read more about the history of Jews in Antwerp.
Located right in the center of the Diamond district, a couple of minutes walking from the Central Station. Luxurious 4-star hotel with an indoor pool, spacious rooms with writing desk. Suites available. Check the latest price.
Luxury > Park Inn by Radisson Antwerpen Spacious and super clean rooms, some of them with a great view. The hotel features a gym, and you can use sauna and swimming pool at the Health Club that is 100 m away. Check the latest price.
Mid-range > Queen A Antwerp Incredibly cosy rooms and common area, decorated with a great taste and sense for interior details. Very kind staff and excellent breakfast! Check the latest price.
Budget > Eden Hotel Simply decorated in pastel colors, and for a very reasonable price considering the proximity to the main railway station. Free tea/coffee station available. Check the latest price.
Rough and poor area in the past that has become a shopping area with lots of cafes now. Popular for its vintage vibes, great proximity to the centre and best Antwerp attractions. Safe and lively Southern neighbourhood in Antwerp.
Wonderful holiday home for family or groups of friends. It features three double beds, a seating area, washing machine, and a small kitchen. It’s centrally located, with many cafes and restaurants around. Check the latest price.
Luxury > Maison Nationale City Flats & Suites Ultra clean, beautiful, bright, and spacious rooms designed in black & white minimalistic style. Possibility to prepare your own food with the kitchenware. Check the latest price.
Mid-range > Kaai11 City Flats & Rooms A luxurious option for a mid-range budget. Situated near the Schelde River, most of the rooms have awesome views. Modern & elegant interior. Some suites come with a fully equipped kitchen. Check the latest price.
Budget > Antwerp Cental Youth Hostel Very cool place in a great location. Simple and clean with twin, quadruple, or dormitory rooms, all with private bathrooms. Buffet breakfast included. Check the latest price.
Het Eilandje means “Little Island,” and currently the area is boasting with loads of cafes, and some of the most distinct museums in Antwerp: MAS, which is a highlight of the Het Eilandje, and Red Line Star – a museum dedicated to the emigration waves that brought millions of European overseas, and the iconic Port House of Zaha Hadid.
It’s a cool area to chill out, enjoy an afternoon coffee, and make your artistic soul happy.
Original modern room with minimalistic décor. Clean and spacious rooms feature a shower or a bath. Very good breakfast included. Check the latest price.
Luxury > B&B Suites@FEEK This is something quite different. High ceilings, futuristic white design with a jacuzzi in the room. Great breakfast! Check the latest price.
Mid-range > Best Western Hotel Docklands Modern rooms of a 3-star hotel, some of them with harbour views and a balcony. Very friendly staff. Some rates include delicious breakfast. Check the latest price.
Budget The area doesn’t really offer budget options, but you can find a budget accommodation not far from Eilandje.
Condo Gardens Antwerp Simple, clean studios with a kitchen, great location for a very reasonable price. Check the latest price.
The area doesn’t have the best reputation, but only because of its multicultural nature, as it’s a home to 90 different nationalities.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a bit of an “underground,” creative area with music festivals, quirky bars, and a Moroccan & Turkish minority, which means great food, head to the Borgerhout.
Very stylish and comfortable B&B. You can stay either in an apartment for 2-4 people with kitchenware, or in a double room. Located in a beautiful old mansion from 1907. Minimalistic design with soothing feeling.
Luxury There aren’t any top luxury hotels in the area, although the B&B mentioned above can be considered a high-end choice of accommodation in Borgerhout.
Mid-range > B&B Antwerp Large, impeccable rooms with lots of sunlight, very tastefully decorated. The quadruple room also features a seating area and facilities like a coffee machine, fridge, and microwave. Check the latest price.
Budget > Kif Kef City Apt. Incredibly charming apartment with minimalistic design. Fully equipped kitchen, sun terrace and bike rentals (for an extra charge) available. Check the latest price.
Located in the east of Antwerp, famous mostly for its huge green area: the Rieverenhof Park. It’s the area of townhouses, and it’s not popular among tourists as it lacks Antwerp’s cultural vibes. However, it’s a good option if you feel like staying out of the city center.
There’s great cycling infrastructure. For the best Antwerp attractions you’ll need to take a tram or a bike to the city center. Or… go local and visit some of the Deurne’s cultural events.
Elegant & artsy rooms, some of them with a seating area. The place has a lovely garden, and delicious breakfast included. Very pleasant hosts. Check the latest price.
Mid-range > Luxury Suites Arendshof Modern & simple design, located in a quiet area. The suites are in a two-floor house with a living room and a jacuzzi. Breakfast for an extra fee available. Check the latest price.
Residential, trendy, silent and … the pricey area of Antwerp with convenient public transport. It’s popular for its art nouveau architecture. Over 170 houses in the neighborhood have the status of protected monuments, and most of them were built in 1900’s.
Zurenborg is a bit off the beaten path, as it lacks the typical tourist attractions, but is easily accessed by a short tram ride from the centre. Very worth a visit even if you don’t book a hotel here.
Apart from exploring the special architecture, you can stop by for a coffee, a lunch, or have a pint in one of plenty of Zurenborg’s cafes, restaurants, and bars.
Wonderfully minimalistic rooms with white & red décor. Super clean. Breakfast for an extra fee available, and you can prepare your meals also in the common kitchen. Close to the restaurants.
Luxury There are no luxury options in the area.
Mid-range > Amaaj Simple, neat rooms with private bathrooms and a bathtub. Great relaxing area. Check the latest price.
Budget > Alias Youth Hostel A fantastic choice for budget travelers. Clean, simple, with dormitories or double bedrooms with shared or private bathrooms. Tram stops nearby. Check the latest price.
Make a trip to the southern neighbourhood and visit Middelheim Open Air Sculpture Museum
Hopefully this ultimate guide on where to stay in Antwerp helped you to decide which hotel to book, and what attractions you can see in each neighbourhood.
Have a blast in this incredibly vibrant city, and in case we missed any district you’d recommend staying in or cool things to do in Antwerp we haven’t included here, please, leave a comment below.
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Read article : Architects' tour showcases cutting-edge designs | News
High ceilings, walls of glass, most rooms facing greenery. This is not the home John Shea's father built in 1940 in Old Palo Alto.
But it's the new home on the same spot Shea grew up that will be featured on the American Institute of Architects, Santa Clara Valley's third annual, self-guided Silicon Valley Home Tours on June 3, which will include four other homes on the Midpeninsula.
When Shea inherited his family home in 2006, he and his wife, Carolyn, thought they'd be able to remodel the 1,400-square-foot bungalow to allow them to age in place in his childhood neighborhood. But, John said, "It was obvious that the expense of bringing it up to code would be about equal to starting over."
At first they thought they'd build something that matched the traditional architecture on the street. But, "I had always admired the Eichler open floor plans and wanted one like that," Carolyn said.
After interviewing a number of architects, the couple chose Burlingame-based architect Gary Diebel "because he listened to what we said," Carolyn said. When Diebel asked the Sheas to bring in photos of what they liked, he pointed out that they were all modern.
Diebel designed a single-story home on the 10,000-square-foot lot, with a permeable paver driveway running the length and curving into a three-car garage at the very rear. Dense plantings soften the the front yard, blending the low home with the rest of the block.
At the very front of the house, facing the street, is the office. One wall and the opposite corner are clad in aluminum, blending with the window valance. A bathroom, with a 14-foot ceiling, those clerestory windows, honed Calacatta Gold marble on the floor and tub/shower walls and a blue glass bowl sink, sits between the office and the guest bedroom.
The hallway is lined with John Shea's photographs. Here the windows are at floor level, to prevent fading of the artwork.
In the living room, below the very high clerestory windows, sits a circular light shelf. "We wanted to balance how the light comes in," Diebel said.
Another architectural challenge was the desire by the Sheas to keep their furniture, including a tall china cabinet. "We told Gary to build the house around it," John said. (He even managed to incorporate a stained-glass window that they had made for a San Francisco condominium.)
A large piece of art hangs from a flat bar over the fireplace; roll it to the side and it reveals the flat-screen TV.
Radiant heating was used throughout the house, and no air conditioning is required, since there is adequate cross-ventilation from the many windows. Most of the flooring is wide-planked walnut.
Two wide openings lead to the kitchen, which features "rain" glass windows over the sink and stovetop, offering privacy from their nearby neighbor. It took two-and-a-half slabs of blue granite to create the long countertops, which complement the darker porcelain tile flooring and stainless-steel appliances.
"There's enough light so we can have dark flooring," Diebel added.
On the other side of the public spaces is the laundry room and master-bedroom suite, which has a high-enough ceiling to accommodate the couple's antique hanging lamps. "They go with us where we go," Carolyn said.
Sliding glass doors lead outside. A key piece of landscaping is a 60-foot-plus redwood that John recalls his dad planting from a seedling purchased from the Boy Scouts more than 50 years ago.
Other homes, which range from 2,200 to 10,000 square feet, on the tour include:
• A structure that interlocks with the land in Portola Valley (Square Three Design Studios, Palo Alto).
The focus of the self-guided tour is to walk through the homes, see the materials up close and to meet the architects, who will be on hand at all five homes.