Ahwahnee_HSR_1.2011_pgs_86-115.pdf

ARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUPPhysical Description

Histor ic Structures Report

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January 2011 level and rose to the ceiling. Th e east wall window was on axis with an identical window on the west wall of the Mural Room. Both windows admitted light to the Under Lounge, terminated key interior views on the west and east, and contributed to the symmetry of the space.

Th e south wall was treated similarly to the west wall, except that the fi xed multi-light sash met the fl oor and was set with doors (described below). Flanking the doors, a pair of textured plaster piers on the south wall were originally painted in a faux-wood fi nish matching the ceiling beams.

Openings and Doors Original drawings called for a pair of doors leading to the East Loggia on the north side of the Winter Club Room. While these doors were never executed as planned, the framing was found in the wall during the 2009 forensic investigation. Prior to inauguration of the hotel the door openings were infi lled, signifying a modifi cation late in the construction process.

A pair of glazed multi-light doors was set into the window wall on the south.

Lighting A four-light wrought-iron chandelier was located at the center of the room. Four single-light wrought-iron sconces were mounted on the walls, a pair fl anking the principal interior entrance and a pair on the north wall. Th ese fi xtures incorporated metal miner’s lamps with hurricane-shaped smoked-glass chimneys.

Special Features A fi replace occupied the northwest corner and was set at a diagonal to the square space of the room. Th e fi replace had a raised cast-stone hearth and surround and was topped by a simple unornamented wood mantel. Th e room was equipped with a radiator with a wood cover stained in a dark brown color.

California Room (Winter Club Room)

Historic Description Original drawings designate this space as Writing Room No. 2. From the opening date of the hotel, this room was known as the California Room, as it was distinguished by a decorative theme related to the California Gold Rush.

As one of a pair of smaller, well-proportioned rooms opening from the east and west sides of the Under Lounge, this room attests to the symmetry of the original design. Like the Mural Room, the California Room was accessed from the Under Lounge. Square in plan, the California Room on the east was a mirror image of the Mural Room on the west.

Floor, Walls, and Ceiling Th e fl oor was stained concrete in a checkerboard pattern and palette similar to the Under Lounge.

Th e walls and fl at ceiling were of textured, integrally colored plaster.

Th e pair of ceiling beams ran in a north-south direction through the room and were painted with a decorative faux-wood fi nish.

Th e north wall was solid. Th e west wall had a squared opening to the Under Lounge. Th e south and east walls were partially glazed. A fi xed multi-light sash with multi-light sidelights was centered on the east wall. Th e window opening was approximately 3 feet above the fl oor

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Figure 115: (Source: Yosemite National Park Archives, YP&C Co. Collection)

Figure 116: Overall view of the Winter Club Room, 2009. (Source: ARG)

Physical DescriptionARCHITECTURAL RESOURCES GROUP

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Current Description Th e Winter Club began in 1930 and oft en met in this room while it was still known as the California Room. It was used by the Winter Club within the period of signifi cance but was not designated as the Winter Club Room until sometime aft er WWII. It continues to house artifacts and historical photographs of the Winter Club. Th e room is used as a meeting room and for special events. Th e room measures approximately 28 by 25 feet, with a 14-foot high ceiling.

Floor, Walls, and Ceiling Th e original, historic stained concrete fl oor has been retained. Th e walls are historic textured plaster painted a single off -white color.

A pair of textured plaster piers on the south wall is painted a dark monochromatic color.

Openings and Doors All historic window walls remain in place and are as described as above.

Lighting All historic light fi xtures remain in the original locations. Th e opaque glass globe-shaped bulbs in the fi xtures are replacements.

Special Features Th e fi replace remains in the northwest corner. Th e original wood radiator cover remains in its original location on the north wall and is painted black. An original continuous drapery rod, hung on wrought-iron brackets, spans the opening on the east wall.

Summary of Changes Light fi xtures have been retained but modifi ed. Th e plaster fi nishes have been painted.

Wood display cabinets have been added on either side of the east window.

Figure 119: Detail view of a window at the Winter Club Room, 2009. (Source: ARG)

Figure 118: Historical view of the Winter Club Room, c. 1940. (Source: Yosemite National Park Museum, 8.2)

Figure 117: Historical view of the Winter Club Room, 1943. (Source: Yosemite National Park Museum, 113966)

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Th e north wall was solid. Th e east wall had a squared opening to the Under Lounge. Th e south and west walls were partially glazed. A fi xed multi-light sash with multi-light sidelights was centered on the west wall. Th e window opening was approximately 3 feet above the fl oor level and rose to the ceiling. Th e west wall window was on axis with an identical window on the east wall of the Winter Club Room.

Both windows admitted light to the Under Lounge, terminated key interior views on the west and east, and contributed to the symmetry of the space.

Th e south wall of the Mural Room was treated similarly to the west wall, except that the fi xed multi-light sash met the fl oor and was set with doors (described below).

Openings and Doors Th e east wall opening to the Under Lounge did not contain doors. On the south, the window wall was set with a pair of glazed multi-light doors that exited onto the South Terrace.

Th e Underwood drawings called for a pair of doors leading to the West Loggia on the north side of the Mural Room. While these doors were never executed as planned, physical evidence uncovered during the 2009 forensic investigation indicates that the framing for the doors was constructed. Upon inauguration of the hotel the door openings had been infi lled, signifying a modifi cation late in the construction process.

Lighting A brass chandelier was suspended in the center of the room. A pair of 3-arm wall sconces fl anked the main entry opening in the east wall. Of the Colonial style, the light fi xtures in the Mural Room had a lighter color palette and materials than the more common Gothic style fi xtures.

Figure 120: Historical view of the Mural Room, 1943. (Source: Yosemite National Park Museum, RL 113939)

Figure 121: Overall view of the Mural Room, 2004. (Source: Walklet, Th e Ahwahnee Yosemite’s Grand Hotel, 31.)

Writing Room (Mural Room)

Historic Description Th e original Underwood drawings designated this space as Writing Room No. 1, intended for quiet, contemplative use, for guests to read or write. Since Th e Ahwahnee’s inauguration, this room has been known as the Mural Room. Created by artist Robert Boardman Howard, the mural that gives the room its name was the distinguishing element of the room’s original interior scheme.

Located on the west side of the south wing, the Mural Room was accessed from the Under Lounge. Nearly square in plan, the room was a mirror image of the Winter Club Room on the east side of the South Lounge.

Floor, Walls, and Ceiling Th e overall eff ect, materials, and fi nishes of this room diff ered from those found in other most public spaces in the south wing and the registration wing. Th e predominant material was wood. Th e fl oor was oak strip. All four walls were covered from fl oor to ceiling in redwood paneling with applied trim in a grid pattern. At the north wall, the paneling did not rise to ceiling height; the upper north wall was the location of the mural. Th e ceiling was textured plaster with plaster ceiling beams running in a north-south direction. Historically, the beams were painted to emulate a wood grain fi nish.

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Special Features Th e painted mural was located on the upper portion of the north wall. As stated, the mural was the work of artist Robert Boardman Howard. Done in the 15th century northern European mille fl eur style, the theme referenced the natural environment and fl ora and fauna of Yosemite. Th e fi replace in the northeast corner of the Mural Room is a quarter circle in plan, had a conical, hammered copper hood, and a cast-stone hearth that was nearly fl ush with the fl oor plane.

Th e room was equipped a radiator with a wood cover stained in a dark brown color; it was located on the north wall.

Current Description Th e room measures approximately 25 by 28 feet, with a 14-foot high ceiling. Th e room is frequently used as a meeting and special events room.

Floor, Walls, and Ceiling Th e fl ooring is wood strip, a replacement. All four walls retain the original historic redwood paneling; the north wall is paneled on the lower half with the original mural above. Th e textured plaster ceiling is painted. Th e ceiling beams are painted with a faux-wood fi nish.

Openings and Doors All historic window walls remain in place and are as described as above. Th e doors open toward the exterior. Panic hardware has been added.

Lighting Th e room retains the historic brass chandelier in its original location at the center of the room; it has been modifi ed with the addition of new shades.

Th e wall sconces from this room have been re-installed in the Colonial Room. Th e original locations of the sconces on the east wall are evident due to extant mounting plates in the wood paneling.

Special Features Th e historic painted mural and fi replace remain in the original locations. Th e wood radiator cover remains in its original location on the north wall and is painted black.

Summary of Changes Th e fl oor treatment in the Mural Room changed over time. Aft er the period of signifi cance, it was covered with blue wall to wall carpeting.

Later, the original wood fl oor was removed and a replacement fl oor was installed. Planning for the replacement began in 2000, and the new wood fl oor was installed c. 2001-2002.

Other changes include the removal of the wall sconces at an unknown date.

Figure 122: Overall view of the Mural Room, 2004. Note that door opening is on axis with window in Winter Club Room. (Source: Walklet, Th e Ahwahnee:

Yosemite’s Grand Hotel, 5.) Figure 124: Entrance to Mural Room, 2010. (Source: ARG)

Figure 123: Historical view of the north wall of the Mural Room, c. 1940. (Source: Yosemite National Park Museum, 8.3)

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January 2011 were passages allowing circulation to and from the Under Lounge.

Th e upper openings in the plane of the north wall corresponded to the mezzanine level, the location of the Tudor Lounge. Th e balustrades of decoratively carved wood at the upper openings are similar to the railings between the Great Lounge and the North Mezzanine Lounge.

Openings and Doors Th e fi ve double-height window walls were comprised of fi xed-pane, multi-light sash surrounding large fi xed panes with wood wainscot below the windows. At the upper level, multi-light hopper windows were designed to be operable for ventilation. Two pair of half-glazed, wood-framed double doors were set into the window walls on the east and west sides of the space, leading to the exterior. Historically, the wood door and door frame fi nishes were a light-colored stain.

Double-height windows were designed to aff ord views out and to bring in more natural light. Important to the exterior expression as well, the Solarium’s windows are recessed between fl ared granite piers and were designed to be shaded by fabric window awnings.

Lighting A large wrought-iron pendant light fi xture was suspended from a chain in the center of the room. A smaller single-light wrought-iron pendant light fi xture with a mica shade was located in the open stairwell. Two pair of 2-light wrought-iron sconces were mounted to the walls.

Special Features Historically, sunrooms have provided an optimal growing environment for indoor plants. Th e original designers took advantage of this to incorporate a fountain of indigenous jasper stone with live plantings which references Yosemite’s waterfalls and natural environment. Th e rear wall behind the fountain, a basin with segmented low wall, was constructed of jasper stone with light red colored mortar. In plan, the segmented form of the fountain mimics the room’s fl oor plan and perimeter. Historically, potted plants rested on the edge of stair opening and were part of the fountain scheme that dominated the north wall.

Solarium

Historic Description As the name suggests, the Solarium was used historically as a sunroom, an informal sitting room to enjoy the beauty of the outdoor surroundings in any type of weather. Inherent in the design and use of this space was the overall arrangement as the termination of the south axis and its orientation to capture views of Glacier Point, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls and the immediate grounds. Located at the southernmost point of the south wing, the function of the Solarium depended on the benefi ts of southern exposure.

Floor, Walls, and Ceiling Th e concrete fl oor was scored in a linear pattern that radiates symmetrically from a fountain located to the north of the room, and it was stained in a yellow and green palette. Th e walls, piers, and ceiling were of textured plaster. Two plaster beams spanned the ceiling in a north-south direction from the central stair to the exterior wall.

Th e east, south, and west walls, principally glazed, enclosed the room’s semi-circular plan. Th e north wall was designed as a tripartite arrangement. At the center of the north wall was a stone fountain with an opening to the stair landing above. On either side of the fountain, the double-height wall plane was solid, forming a central bay. On both sides of the central bay, two pair of openings in vertical alignment opened to interior spaces. Th e openings on the lower level

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Figure 125: Historical view of Solarium looking east, c. 1927. (Source:

Yosemite National Park Research Library, YOSE 8567, RL 10543)

Figure 126: Overall view of Solarium looking east, 2009.

(Source: ARG)

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Original cast-iron steam radiators were located in the room.

Draperies were installed between the Under Lounge and the Solarium sometime within the period of signifi cance, and may have been original.

Current Description Th e Solarium measures approximately 45 by 27 feet, with a 22-foot high ceiling. At present the room functions as originally intended, as an informal gathering space, sitting room and transitional indoor/ outdoor space. Th e Solarium is occasionally used for meetings or special events.

Floor, Walls, and Ceiling Th e original concrete fl oor remains. Th e original plaster fi nishes of the walls, piers, ceilings and beams are painted. Th e east, south, and west window walls retain their original historic locations and confi gurations. Th e multi-light hopper windows are fi xed in a closed position. Centered on the north wall, the landing of the stair cantilevers over the fountain below and projects into the room.

Openings and Doors Two pair of half-glazed, wood paneled doors open to the exterior on the east and west sides of the space. Th e historic doors remain in their original locations. Th e doors and door frame fi nishes are painted a dark brown color. Like many other exterior doors in the hotel, the original direction of the swing of the Solarium doors has been reversed. Th e doors to the exterior have had panic hardware added.

Lighting Two historic wrought-iron pendant light fi xtures remain in their original locations. Th e pair of historic wall sconces remain in their original locations.

Special Features A focal point of the room is the historic wall fountain which is centered on the north wall. Original cast-iron steam radiators remain in the room and are still in use.

Summary of Changes Between 1943 and 1945, the room use changed signifi cantly. It retained its gathering function, but it was more intensely used during the military period since the Great Lounge was used as sleeping quarters and gathering space was limited. It also became a primary circulation space with the west door opening connecting to a covered passage and hallway extending westerly from the Solarium to a temporary auditorium/registration building. Th ese modifi cations were removed when the building returned to hotel use aft er World War II.

Another change in this space occurred at the stairway to the south mezzanine. Th e level of the landing was lowered and cantilevered over the fountain. Th ese elements were altered aft er the period of signifi cance to correct the original stair run that was too steep and to create a landing. In addition, the handrail was expanded to the perimeter of the new landing. Historically, it was in plane with the north wall. Th e existing iron handrail is similar to the original railing, in a style that alternates squared and spiraled balusters. It is likely that the modifi cation to the stair and stair landing resulted in the removal of some historic wall plaster in this area. Th e exact date of this modifi cation is not known but photographic evidence indicates it occurred aft er 1943.

Prior to the stair modifi cation that created the projecting landing, the north wall was a relatively fl at plane. Th e opening between the originally smaller landing and the Solarium held cascading plants which formed a type of green wall and were an integral part of the fountain arrangement. Th e cantilevered landing now encroaches on the space and diminishes the original design intent of the fountain and green wall. For a period of time the plants in the stone fountain were artifi cial. Th e hotel operator has recently returned to maintaining living plants in the fountain.

Th e Solarium retains many of its historic distant and immediate views. Th e existing exterior awnings are installed lower on the walls than they were located historically.

Figure 127: Historical view of Solarium from exterior during Navy occupation, c. 1943. Note rare view of operable Solarium transoms in open position. (Source: Department of the Navy, Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, Washington, D.C.)

Figure 128: Detail view of fountain in Solarium, 2009. (Source: ARG)

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January 2011 lower part of the east wall had a six-foot high wood wainscot. Th e center panels of the quatrefoil panels were operable so guests in the Private Dining Room could observe the grand dining space below.

Th e north wall featured integrally colored plaster expanses set in between evenly spaced log columns (with steel I-beam cores), a six-foot high wood wainscot along the base, and mechanical grilles faced with a decorative grid. Supporting spaces for staff and the Kitchen areas were concealed behind the north wall. On the west end, two massive squared piers of granite framed the space. Beyond the piers, dining space extended into an alcove, square in plan and narrower in width, and directly in line with Yosemite Falls. A decorative wrought-iron valance framed the view to the falls.

Largely glazed, the south wall was comprised of single pane windows, tall and narrow in proportion set into log-framed window openings with multi-light sash and fi xed sidelights. Th e top sash, a hopper type window, was operable.

Openings and Doors Natural light was admitted on the south and west through eleven plate glass windows measuring 24 feet in height, with multi-pane sash. Wood-framed glazed doors were located on either side of each window and opened to the outdoor terrace. A self-closing metal-clad fi re door was suspended at the opening to the Kitchen.

Lighting A total of fourteen 15-light wrought-iron chandeliers, each with a triangular form, were suspended in two rows through the Dining Room. Eighteen 5-light wrought-iron wall sconces lined the perimeter of the room. All the windows aff orded impressive views, especially at the west end where the alignment was toward the landscape.

Current Description At present, the Dining Room continues to make a strong impression on visitors as it retains its double-height volume and proportion, all its original historic elements, and character-defi ning features. No other interior space within Th e Ahwahnee makes similar use of

Dining Room

Historic Description Designed on a grand scale, the main volume of the Dining Room was a double-height space measuring approximately 130 by 51 feet with a loft y ceiling height of 34 feet. Rectangular in plan, it stretched away from the main building core toward the west. Th e aesthetic of the Dining Room was defi ned by its materials, predominantly wood and stone, with log construction for framing and trusses. Th e space is anchored by pairs of massive granite piers at the far ends of the room. Th e structure of the room relies on the use of peeled sugar pine columns (with steel I-beam cores in some locations for strength).

Floor, Walls, and Ceiling Th e concrete fl oor was stained with multiple colors in a palette of red, green, tan and brown. Th e scoring of the concrete fl oor displayed an elaborate geometric pattern, similar to those seen in other parts of the hotel, but more intricate. A carpet, the width of the center aisle, ran the length of the room. Following the form of the roof, the sloped ceiling was of log truss construction. Celotex acoustical panels were set into the ceiling and were used high on all walls. Th e wall panels had painted decorative fi nishes in the form of colorful stencils.

Entry was gained on the east end from the Elevator Lobby. Th e fi rst structural bay was a single-story space below the Private Dining Room on the mezzanine level. On the east wall, three sets of wood panels with quatrefoil cutouts were located high on the wall. Th e

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Figure 129: Historical view of Th e Ahwahnee Dining Room, date unknown. (Source: Yosemite National Park Research Library, RL 4476)

Figure 130: Overall view of Dining Room, 2009. (Source: ARG)

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Figure 132: Historical view of Dining Room looking east, c. 1927. (Source: Yosemite National Park Research Library, RL 4477)

Figure 131: Exterior view of Dining Room doors, 1980. (Source:

Charles Cramer, courtesy Yosemite National Park Research Library) local materials – granite piers, peeled sugar pine columns, and log trusses – as does the Dining Room. Th e special quality of openness to the exterior achieved through the walls of windows on the south and west also continues to defi ne the room’s aesthetic.

Floor, Walls, and Ceiling Th e original, scored concrete fl oor and walls of log construction and integrally colored, textured plaster remain. Th e original plaster fi nishes are painted.

Openings and Doors Historic windows and doors remain as described above. A number of the doors are replacements with insulated glazing. Th e self-closing fi re door is extant.

Lighting Th e original wrought-iron chandeliers remain in their original locations. Th e chandeliers have been wired to accommodate speakers.

Wall sconces remain in the original historic locations. Spotlights are mounted to the log cross-beams.

Special Features Th e Service Bar with a wood counter and carved wood panels is located on the north side near the entry from the Elevator Lobby. Th e door to the Dining Room Manager’s Offi ce is located on the east wall.

Summary of Changes Plaster surfaces have been painted, diminishing the eff ect of the original fi nishes.

Th e Service Bar was added in 1959 at the northeast corner of the Dining Room. Modifi cations included the addition of a partial-height wall to partition the new bar area from the Dining Room. Th e new wall was constructed to match the height and detail of the existing wainscot on the Dining Room side. Th e Service Bar structure consists of a plain wood-panel face and wood veneer bar surface. A counter, shelves and wine rack were installed along the north wall, parallel to Figure 134: Historical view of men and women dancing in Dining Room during Navy occupation,

c. 1943-45. (Department of the Navy, Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, Washington, DC.)

Figure 133: Detail view of east wall, 2010.

(Source: ARG) the new bar. Decorative boxed panels, with back-lit quatrefoil cut-outs, were added above the wainscot on the north and east walls. New doors provided access to the Cold Storage area and the Dining Room Manager’s Offi ce.

Original wrought-iron chandeliers remain throughout, except for two, which are missing from above the main entry and Service Bar.

Chandeliers have been modifi ed with the addition of speakers.

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Ancillary Dining Room Spaces

Historic Description Th e Dining Room vestibule was originally lined with small spaces that served the Dining Room. Historically, an offi ce and the Coat Check Room were located on the south side of the vestibule, and a storage area and alcove were located to the north. Th e fl oors of the ancillary spaces were all concrete, and it can be assumed that the walls and ceilings were plaster. Th e walls of the Check Room were lined with shelves, and the offi ce space featured a small closet.

Current Description Th e ancillary Dining Room spaces include the following current uses: Food and Beverage Manager’s Offi ce, Coat Check, Dining Room Manager’s Offi ce, storage area off the Dining Room entry vestibule, and Cold Storage area adjacent to the Service Bar. Although these spaces continue to be used to support the Dining Room, the confi guration of the rooms and the specifi c uses of each space have changed over time. Th e historic and non-historic materials and details in these spaces are relatively simple.

Floor, Walls, and Ceiling Th e fl oors in both offi ces and Coat Check are covered in non-historic carpet. Th e storage space has an exposed painted concrete fl oor, which is the historic material for that space. Th e Cold Storage Room also has a concrete fl oor, most of which is unfi nished.

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Figure 136: Current fl oor plan of ancillary Dining Room spaces, 2010.

(Source: ARG)

Figure 135: Detail of historical Underwood fl oor plan of ancillary Dining Room spaces, 1926. (Source: Yosemite Facilities Branch fi les)

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An area at the eastern edge of the room, which used to be part of the adjacent space, is stained and scored.

Th e rooms were typically fi nished with plaster at the walls and ceiling, and the extant historic walls are still plaster. Th e partition walls added to divide the Check Room and to create the Cold Storage area are gypsum board. Th e offi ces have a fl at wood baseboard trim. Th e ceilings in the offi ces and Coat Check are plaster; the ceilings in the storage and Cold Storage areas are gypsum board. All of the wall and ceiling surfaces are painted.

Openings and Doors Each of these spaces has a vertical plank door at its entrance with the exception of the sliding door at the Cold Storage area, which is paneled to match the historic wainscot in the Dining Room. Th e plank door at the Dining Room Manager’s Offi ce is a Dutch door with a transaction counter at the lower leaf. Th e plank doors at the Food and Beverage Manager’s Offi ce and storage room are Dutch doors that have been reconnected to operate as single leaf doors. In addition, a hollow metal door opens from the Cold Storage Room into the service hallway.

Lighting Th e Coat Check has two historic light fi xtures: a wrought-iron pendant fi xture similar to the one in the General Manager’s Offi ce vestibule and a wrought-iron sconce similar to the historic fi xtures in the Sweet Shop. Th e Dining Room Offi ces have non-historic ceiling fans with central lights. Th e storage and Cold Storage areas have utilitarian socket fi xtures with safety cages.

Special Features Historic board and batten casework, which is painted, is located at the west end of the Coat Check. An air conditioning unit is installed in the window of the Food and Beverage Manager’s Offi ce.

Summary of Changes Th e addition of the Service Bar to the Dining Room in 1959 included some changes to the ancillary Dining Room spaces as well. Th e size of the Coat Check was reduced by half in order to create a room for table storage, which is now the Dining Room Manager’s Offi ce.

According to the plans for this project, the Coat Check door was moved to the east wall of the Dining Room to become the entrance to the Dining Room Manager’s Offi ce. Th e Cold Storage area was also created as part of this project. Th e door and wall framing at the west wall of the Cold Storage were installed at this time. It is unknown when the Cold Storage area was expanded to its current size to the east.

Figure 137: View looking toward Dining Room Manager’s Offi ce, 2010. (Source: ARG)

Figure 140: View looking toward Cold Storage room, 2010. (Source: ARG)

Figure 139: View of Coat Check, 2010.

(Source: ARG)

Figure 138: View of door to Dining Room storage, 2010.

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Special Features According to the original drawings, a lavatory was centered on the east wall of the room, and a vault at the south wall was accessible from the Cashier’s Counter.

Current Description Th e two offi ces created from the Barber Shop space are narrow spaces. A small vestibule leads to the Executive Assistant’s Offi ce, which is approximately 14 by 8½ feet. Th e General Manager’s Offi ce is slightly less wide, measuring approximately 17 feet by 7 feet. Th e Shoe Shine niche has become a pass-through corridor to the Cashier’s area.

Floor, Walls, and Ceiling Th e fl oors in both offi ces are covered with carpet tile. Th e historic perimeter walls are plaster, while the non-historic partition wall dividing the two offi ce spaces is gypsum board. All of the walls are painted and have a fl at wood baseboard trim. Th e ceilings are all painted historic plaster.

Openings and Doors Th e door from the hallway to the General Manager’s Offi ce area is a historic vertical panel wood door. Th e framed opening between the vestibule and the Executive Assistant’s Offi ce does not contain a door. Th e door to the General Manager’s Offi ce is a sliding pocket door with stile and rail construction and is stained and varnished.

A painted fl ush wood door that is shorter than the historic opening that led to the closet. Th e gap between the door and the casing has been infi lled with gypsum board. Th is door now leads to the Assistant Manager’s Offi ce.

Th e interior window in the wall between the General Manager’s Offi ce and Executive Assistant’s Offi ce is a non-historic multi-paned, wood-framed divided-light sash, with an operable pane of glass in the lower corner.

Barber Shop (General Manager’s Office and Executive Assistant’s Office)

Historic Description Th is space was originally the Barber Shop, and it measured approximately 17 by 15 feet. A small niche measuring 5 by 5 feet to the south of the vestibule was used as a shoe shine area. Other than the information included on the original drawings, no historical evidence has been found regarding the appearance of the Barber Shop.

Floor, Walls, and Ceiling According to the original drawings, the fi nish fl oor material was the same as the other public spaces. Th is room was not included on the original scoring and staining pattern drawing produced by Ernest Born, so it can be presumed that the fl oor was not scored. Th e walls and ceilings were plaster.

Openings and Doors Th e door into the Barber Shop was a vertical plank door similar to the other doors in this hallway. A door on the north wall of the room led to a closet.

Lighting A wrought-iron pendant fi xture was located in the vestibule adjacent to the Shoe Shine area. Other lighting in this room is unknown.

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Figure 141: Detail of historical Underwood fl oor plan of Barber Shop, 1926. (Source: Yosemite Facilities Branch fi les)

Figure 142: Current fl oor plan of former Barber Shop, 2010. (Source: ARG)

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Lighting Th e General Manager’s Offi ce has a non-historic ceiling fan and light.

Th e adjacent offi ce has a similar non-historic ceiling fan with a light.

Th e vestibule to the General Manager’s Offi ce has a historic wrought-iron pendant.

Special Features Th e Executive Assistant’s Offi ce has non-historic painted built-in cabinets along the east wall. Th e vault remains in its historic location.

Summary of Changes Th e Barber Shop closed permanently in 1959. It is unknown when the room was converted to offi ce space. In order to create two offi ces in this space, a partition wall was added that bisected the room. In addition, a cased opening was added at the wall at the south side of the Shoe Shine area and the closet to the south of the room was removed. It is unknown exactly when these modifi cations occurred, but it was likely soon aft er the closure of the Barber Shop. More recently, painted wood shelves and cabinets were added at east wall of Executive Assistant’s Offi ce.

Figure 143: Overall view of General Manager’s Executive Assistant’s Offi ce, 2009. (Source: ARG)

Figure 145: Detail view of window in General Manager’s Executive Assistant’s Offi ce, 2009. (Source: ARG)

Figure 144: Detail view of window in General Manager’s Executive Assistant’s Offi ce, 2009. (Source: ARG)

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Openings and Doors Th e Men’s Room door is a historic vertical panel door. Th e hardware on this door includes a pull on the outside and a push plate on the inside of the lounge door.

Lighting Th e lighting includes recessed fl uorescent fi xtures over the sink area and two non-historic pendant fi xtures.

Special Features Th e counter in the Men’s Room is a solid surface material, and the toiler and urinal partitions are plastic.

Summary of Changes Although the layout and form of the room has not been signifi cantly altered, the fi nishes in the room have been replaced several times, including 1971 and 1992. Th e latter campaign included the removal of the internal janitor closet in order to install an accessible stall at the east end of the room. Th e toilet and urinal partitions were also replaced in 1992.

Men’s Room

Historic Description Th is room was the public Men’s Room for the hotel, a function that continues today. Th ree lavatories lined the west wall, and three urinals were located on the north wall facing four toilet stalls on the south wall. A small janitor closet was located between the entrance and the toilet stalls on the south wall. Th is room historically had a tile fl oor and wainscot. Th e walls above the wainscots and ceiling were plaster.

Current Description Th e room has the same general layout that it historically had, with the sinks at the west wall and the urinals and toilet stalls on the north and south walls.

Floor, Walls, and Ceilings Th e fl oor is covered with large 12x12 ceramic tiles, which are laid in a decorative pattern with interspersed 1x1 accent tiles. A few of the fi eld tiles have been replaced with lighter colored tiles. Th e walls have an eight-foot tile wainscot with painted plaster walls above. Th e tile wainscot in the Men’s Room is 2x2 tile with a decorative band of 2x2 diagonal tiles at the top. Th e ceiling is painted historic plaster.

MEN’S

ROOM

GROUND FLOOR

Figure 147: Overall view of Men’s Room, 2010. (Source: ARG) Figure 148: Overall view of Men’s Room, 2010. (Source: ARG)

Figure 146: Detail of historical Underwood fl oor plan of Men’s Room, 1926.

(Source: Yosemite Facilities Branch fi les)

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Figure 149: Historical Underwood longitudinal section, 1926. (Source: Yosemite Facilities Branch fi les)

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Openings and Doors Most of the doors between the main Kitchen and the ancillary spaces were single wood panel doors with a glazed panel in the upper half and a transom window above. A pair of half-glazed swinging doors with a full-width transom above separated the Dishwashing Room from the Kitchen.

Lighting Daylight from the upper-level divided-light wood clerestory windows arranged in groups of three at the east and west walls was an important light source for the Kitchen. Natural light was supplemented with several small industrial, single bulb fi xtures mounted on the ceiling high above work spaces. Historically, the Kitchen was not as brightly lit as at present.

Special Features Ground level ancillary spaces along the perimeter were lined with divided-light, wood hopper type windows with screens along the west, north and east walls.

Current Description Th e Kitchen, the hotel’s largest and most important back-of-house space, retains its historic double-height volume and original confi guration of special purpose rooms at the perimeter of the central Kitchen, in addition to a number of historic features. Uses of most ancillary rooms remain consistent with the original historic functions, especially the Pastry Room, Bakery, Employee Dining Room, Dishwashing Room and most Food Storage spaces. Some ancillary areas are lined with wood shelving, as in the Food Storage area.

Portions of the mezzanine at the north end have been enclosed and are now used as mechanical spaces

Floor, Walls, and Ceiling Th e Kitchen fl oors are typically non-historic 6x6 red quarry tile over a concrete slab with similar coved quarry tile at the base. Numerous fl oor drains are installed under the Kitchen equipment. Th e Dishwashing Room has patterned slip-resistant quarry tiles.

Kitchen Wing

Historic Description Historically, the Kitchen, rectangular in plan, was organized around a double-height central volume surrounded by smaller, single-height supporting spaces at the perimeter. Th ese ancillary spaces were partitioned from the large central Kitchen and included the Pastry Room, Bakery, Employee Dining Room, Refrigeration and Ice- Making Room along the west wall, Ice Storage, Fruit and Vegetable Room, and storerooms at the rear (north), and Rubbish and Garbage Rooms, Dishwashing Station, Glass and Silver Storage, Room Service Pantry, and Waiters’ work space along the east wall. A two-way entry vestibule at the center of the south wall provided access between the Kitchen and Dining Room. As opposed to the fl at ceiling of the double-height space of the Kitchen, the ancillary spaces had sloped ceilings corresponding to the roof forms. Th e upper part of the double-height Kitchen was open and airy. Stairs led to a partially enclosed mezzanine at the north end. Th e original character was consistent with a well-organized institutional Kitchen with white walls and stainless steel countertops on freestanding wood cabinets.

Floor, Walls, and Ceiling Th e concrete fl oor covering was linoleum tiles in the central area with exposed concrete in ancillary spaces. Walls and ceiling were a smooth plaster, painted with a glossy fi nish. Interior partition walls lined the perimeter of the central Kitchen space and were inset with large fi xed panes to admit natural light at the lower level.

GROUND FLOOR

Figure 150: Historical overall view of Kitchen, date unknown. (Source: Yosemite National Park Research Library, RL 10236)

Figure 151: Overall view of Kitchen, 2010. (Source: ARG)

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In the Dry Storage area, the fl oor is historic painted concrete with integral concrete base. Th e Chef ’s Offi ce has non-historic VCT.

Th e typical wall material is painted historic plaster. Some of the walls and columns are covered with stainless-steel panels, especially in areas near equipment. Many corners have steel or stainless-steel corner guards. Steel pipe railing surrounds a refrigerator in the center of the main Kitchen area. Th e Dishwashing Room has non-historic fi ber reinforced plastic (FRP) panels on the walls.

Th e Kitchen ceiling is painted historic plaster but newer, non-historic materials are used in the ancillary spaces. Th e ceiling in the Dishwashing Room is vinyl-coated 2x4 panels. Th e Break Room has 2x4 lay-in tiles. A dropped acoustical ceiling is in the Chef ’s Offi ce.

Th e Food Storage area retains the historic plaster ceiling with exposed steel beams.

Openings and Doors Most of the doors in the Kitchen have been replaced. Exceptions to this are the pair of vertical plank doors with wire glass panels that lead to the loading dock and the wood stile and rail door with glazed panel and metal cladding at the bakery. Th e Chef ’s Offi ce door is a half-glazed, wood stile and rail door. Th e doors to the Food Storage area and the Employee Dining Room are wood with a vision light and galvanized steel panel. Th e exterior doors from the Dishwashing Room are metal with metal frames. Th e hardware throughout the Kitchen typically includes hinges with push plates and kick-plates.

Lighting Suspended fl uorescent tube lighting fi xtures run the length of the Kitchen. In the Dishwashing Room and Chef ’s Offi ce, 1x4 fl uorescent fi xtures are surface mounted. Th e Break Room has recessed downlights. None of the lighting is historic.

Special Features Th e original divided-light, wood hopper type windows with wired safety glass and screens at the west, north and east walls remain in place, and most are operable. Several original historic freezer and refrigerators remain. Th ey retain the original wood doors with strap hinges and handle hardware. At least one original radiator remains in the Kitchen.

Summary of Changes Th e Kitchen area has been remodeled over time. At an unknown date, a portion of the wall between the Dishwashing Room and main Kitchen was removed. Also at unknown dates, the walls and doors around the Garbage Room were altered, and the rubbish room was converted to a walk-in freezer.

In addition, equipment, appliances, fi xtures and fi nishes have been upgraded. Kitchen equipment includes non-historic stainless steel stations and counters, freestanding stainless steel sinks, textured stainless steel freezer and refrigerator doors. Several large stainless-steel exhaust hoods over stoves, ovens and kettles are suspended from the ceiling on steel truss frames. Ducts are suspended from the ceiling and vented out the clerestory windows. Due to the heavy use, it is likely that the fl oor fi nish has been replaced numerous times. Th e mezzanine remains in use and has been modifi ed. All fl uorescent lighting has replaced the original utilitarian light fi xtures.

Figure 152: View of Kitchen showing windows, 2004. (Source: Walklet, Th e Ahwahnee:

Yosemite’s Grand Hotel, 36.)

Figure 153: Detail of historical Underwood fl oor plan of Kitchen, 1926. (Source: Yosemite Facilities Branch fi les)

Figure 154: Current fl oor plan of main Kitchen, 2009.

(Source: Hornberger+Worstell)

Entry vesti bule

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Centered on the matching east and west walls were squared openings to the Colonial and Game Rooms, each framed with substantial plaster surrounds.

Lighting Six brass chandeliers were suspended at regularly spaced locations throughout the Tudor Lounge.

Special Features Th e fi replace at the center of the south wall had a brick fi rebox and squared, blue-stained cast-stone surround below a mantel shelf. It had a decoratively painted strap-work pattern.

Current Description Now known as the Tudor Lounge, this room retains its original use as a meeting room and lounge.

Floor, Walls, and Ceiling Th e fl oor is carpeted. Th e walls and ceilings are painted historic plaster.

Openings and Doors At the north wall a pair of wood-framed window walls with operable casements remain in their original historic confi guration overlooking the Great Lounge. At the south wall, the east and west recesses and the fi replace remain in their original confi guration as well. Th e Colonial and Tresidder Rooms are entered through multi-light glazed doors framed with substantial plaster surrounds.

Lighting Th e six existing Colonial style, brass and wood chandeliers in the Tudor Lounge are replacement fi xtures.

Special Features Th e south wall fi replace has brick fi rebox, a painted cast-stone surround, and a highly polished dark grey granite hearth that appears to be a replacement.

South Mezzanine Lounge (Tudor Lounge)

Historic Description Originally designated as the Mezzanine Lounge on Underwood’s drawings, this space became known as the Tudor Lounge upon inauguration of the hotel. Located directly above the South Lounge, it was of similar proportions. Th e South Mezzanine Lounge is accessed from the south stair at the rear of the Solarium. As at the North Mezzanine Lounge, the space aff orded a perch from which to survey the goings-on in the Great Lounge and other spaces. Th e historic function of this room was as a meeting room and lounge.

Floor, Walls, and Ceiling Th e original fl ooring material is not known, although documents from the 1946 restoration indicate that there was a wood fl oor at that time. Th e walls, ceilings, and ceiling beams were of textured plaster.

Openings and Doors Th e prevailing character of the space was based on strict symmetry and a tripartite composition at the north and south walls. Th ree overscaled squared recesses were located on the north wall; the center being solid, and the two fl anking recesses overlooking the Great Lounge. Th ese north-facing openings were infi lled with a wood-framed window wall with operable multi-light casements at the center. On the south wall, the recesses at the far ends fl anked a fi replace in the center bay. Th e end bays had carved wood openwork balustrades and were open to the Solarium.

FIRST FLOOR / MEZZANINE

Figure 155: Overall view of the Tudor Lounge, 2010. (Source: ARG)

Figure 156: Detail view looking toward Great Lounge, 2010. (Source: ARG)

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January 2011

Figure 158: Detail view of carved wood balustrade in the Tudor Lounge, 2010. (Source: ARG)

Figure 159: View of the Tudor Lounge set up for meeting, 2010. (Source: ARG)

Summary of Changes Th e multi-light glazed doors in the framed openings to the Colonial and Tresidder Rooms were installed at an unknown date.

Th e historic light fi xtures have been removed from the room. Two of the historic fi xtures may be in the sixth fl oor Library. Th e existing fi xtures are similar in style to the historic fi xtures. According to the Historic Lighting Fixture Condition Assessment in Th e Ahwahnee Historic Furnishings Report, the six existing brass Colonial style chandeliers in the Tudor Lounge date to the 1940s or later, based on the type of wiring used. Th e existing fi xtures likely date to Th e Ahwahnee post-war restoration campaign.

Th e fi replace has been modifi ed by the removal of the mantel shelf, overpainting of the original painted pattern, and the addition of a new hearth. Th e existing painted pattern on the cast-stone at the Tudor Lounge fi replaces was executed sometime aft er 1997 according to photographs.

Figure 157: Detail view of fi replace in the Tudor Lounge, 2010. (Source:

ARG)

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January 2011

Lighting According to the 1943 inventory, this room had a Colonial 8-light pendant fi xture with pewter fi nish and four wall sconces, two each on the north and west walls.

Special Features Th e brick fi replace, featuring a brick surround, wood molding, and a wood mantel, was set at a diagonal at the northwest corner of the room.

Current Description Th e Colonial Room is currently used for meetings.

Floor, Walls, and Ceiling Th e fl oor is carpeted with a patterned broadloom cut pile carpet. Th e walls and ceiling are plaster, now painted. Th e picture rail and base trim are painted a dark brown. Th e ceiling beams are painted; the fi nish is the same non-historic dark red color as the door surround.

Openings and Doors Glazed openings on the east and south walls are the original paired divided-light doors with sidelights and operable transoms. Both sets of exterior doors connect to open balconies. Th ese exterior doors open onto the balconies. A pair of dark wood-framed, glazed multi-light doors set into the west wall open into the space from the Tudor Lounge.

Lighting An 8-light brass chandelier hangs at the center of this room. Th is fi xture may be original to the building, but it was not original to this room according to the 1943 inventory. Th e brass wall sconces in this room are also original to the building, but were initially located in the Mural Room.

Special features Th e corner fi replace retains its original historic elements, though the quarry tile at the hearth extension does not appear to be original.

Card Room No. 2 (Colonial Room)

Historic Description Th e architect’s original drawings designate this mezzanine level space as Card Room No. 2, though the room has been known as the Colonial Room since the hotel’s inauguration. It is similar in proportion to the California Room directly below on the ground fl oor level. Card Room No. 2, like the corresponding Card Room No. 1 on the west side of the mezzanine, was square in plan and symmetrical.

Th e historic function of this room was as a sitting room and lounge.

Floor, Walls, and Ceiling Th e fl ooring was wood according to information from the 1946 restoration documents. Th e walls, fl at ceiling, and ceiling beams were plaster. A picture rail trim lined all four walls; it was a few feet below the ceiling at the level the entrance door trim. Th e north wall was a solid plane. Th e west wall opened into the mezzanine lounge through a deeply recessed squared portal, unencumbered by doors. A pair of textured plaster beams spanned the ceiling in the north-south direction.

Openings and Doors Leading to balconies at the south and east walls were two pair of multi-pane, divided-light doors with sidelights and operable transoms. A squared entry opening, without doors, located on the west wall connected to the South Mezzanine Lounge.

FIRST FLOOR / MEZZANINE

Figure 160: Gunnar M. Widforss watercolor painting of Card Room No. 2, now known as the Colonial Room. Note wood fl oor, fi replace, and light fi xtures. (Source: Yosemite National Park Museum, YOSE 38541)

Figure 161: Overall view of the Colonial Room, 2009. (Source: ARG)

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Th e brick surround is painted orange; below the mantel shelf is a painted stencil…