Morgans Names GM and DoM for Clift, San Francisco

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. November 06, 2009

SAN FRANCISCO, CA, November 4, 2009 - Clift, a Morgans' Original, is pleased to announce the appointment of David Curell as general manager and Diane Wesley as director of marketing. San Francisco's most daring and deluxe hotel, Clift opened in 1913 and was completely renovated by renowned designer Philippe Starck in 2001.

Elegant and sophisticated, yet in a totally modern way, Clift takes conventional hotel philosophy and turns it on its head. While still bearing some of the hallmarks of the traditional luxury hotel experience, such as exemplary service and amenities, what makes Clift special and sets it apart from the rest is the unique energy created by its daring and brilliant juxtapositions - a signature of the Philippe Starck design.

“It is an honor to be entrusted with the management of one of San Francisco's oldest and most storied hotels,” said Curell. “The hotel's legendary Halloween party just returned after a one-year hiatus, benefiting Global Green; Asia de Cuba's new lunch menu is about to launch, and the 10-year anniversary of Clift's re-design is fast approaching. There's always excitement in the air at Clift, and I am thrilled to be on board.”

“Clift has long been a tour de force among San Francisco hotels,” said Wesley. “It will be a privilege to work with an exceptional group of professionals at an exceptional property renowned not only for it history, elegance, and design, but for its unique guest experience and superb service.”

General Manager Curell is a seasoned hotelier with more than 20 years' experience. He most recently served as general manager of the Viceroy Hotel, Santa Monica, part of the Kor Hotel Group. Curell is no stranger to San Francisco hotels, with previous posts at Joie de Vive Hotels, where he was regional vice president for hotel operations and served as managing director for the opening of Hotel Vitale in 2005.

Wesley, also a seasoned hospitality industry professional, takes over the Clift director of marketing position from her previous role as director of sales and marketing at Hotel Vitale. Wesley has previously held posts with Kimpton Hotels, San Francisco, and Virgin Atlantic Airways.

The 372 guest rooms at Clift are generously scaled and beautifully appointed. Outfitted in tranquil and warm shades of ivory, grey and lavender, they exude a sensual softness that is a welcome counterpoint to the hustle and bustle of urban life.

Clift is home to Redwood Room and Asia de Cuba restaurant. Since opening in 1933, Redwood Room has become a landmark in the hearts and minds of San Franciscans and earned a reputation as one of the most stylish bars in the world. Legend has it that the enormous bar was made from the redwood burl of a single giant tree, though it is now finished with a hand-etched Venetian mirror. The elegant and modern space maintains the historic glamour of the original bar.

Asia de Cuba restaurant, by renowned restaurateur Jeffrey Chodorow, features Asian meets Latin sharing cuisine. Appointments such as hand-blown Venetian Murano glass vases, full-height arched windows, lush, redwood-toned velvet curtains and mahogany and leather banquettes create an atmosphere of warmth and intimacy. The dining room's piece de resistance is its centerpiece, a breathtaking cross-shaped communal dining table made of hand-etched illuminated mirror.