The building opened in 1928 as the Hotel Mark Twain, named after the famous American author. It was later almost immediately renamed, and after a major restoration in 2016, re-emerged as the Tilden Hotel.
Art Deco Heritage & Tenderloin Landmark
Located in the historic Tenderloin district—part of the Uptown Tenderloin Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places—the structure features early 20th-century architectural styles that survived San Francisco’s urban transformations.
Art Deco Heritage & Tenderloin Landmark
Located in the historic Tenderloin district—part of the Uptown Tenderloin Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places—the structure features early 20th-century architectural styles that survived San Francisco’s urban transformations.
Named After Sculptor Douglas Tilden
The hotel pays homage to Douglas Tilden, a deaf Chicano sculptor famed for his monuments in the city. Tilden was born in Chico in 1860, created notable works like the Admission Day Monument (1897) and Mechanics Monument (1901) on Market Street, and died in Berkeley in 1935. The hotel’s name celebrates his artistic legacy.
Billie Holiday’s Arrest
During its time as the Hotel Mark Twain, jazz icon Billie Holiday was reportedly arrested on the premises by police—a story tied to the hotel’s colorful past and later scrutiny in SilverKris’s feature on its reopening.
Billie Holiday’s Arrest
During its time as the Hotel Mark Twain, jazz icon Billie Holiday was reportedly arrested on the premises by police—a story tied to the hotel’s colorful past and later scrutiny in SilverKris’s feature on its reopening.
2016 Redesign by Studio Tack
Brooklyn’s Studio Tack led a comprehensive redesign, transforming the once-gritty SRO into a modern boutique hotel. The renovation retained original elements like steam heating, exposed piping, and decorative staircases, while adding minimalist, light-filled communal areas and updated 118 guest rooms.
Reviving the Tenderloin’s Spirit
Part of the building’s revival includes a commitment to the neighborhood’s character. The renovation introduced local art programs (including a poet‑in‑residence), craft‑coffee café, bar and restaurant spaces, and community-focus elements—inquiring into Tenderloin’s creative, gritty-rooted identity.
Reviving the Tenderloin’s Spirit
Part of the building’s revival includes a commitment to the neighborhood’s character. The renovation introduced local art programs (including a poet‑in‑residence), craft‑coffee café, bar and restaurant spaces, and community-focus elements—inquiring into Tenderloin’s creative, gritty-rooted identity.