May is a month of intense sewing work, and no travel.  However, I am taking some time out for a few weekend day trips.  Two weeks back, I joined my co-author and friend, photographer Alisha Westerfeld for a trip to San Francisco.  We finished our day with a wander around the Embarcadaro Center.

Built in the 1970’s, this seven-building complex includes office space, retail, dining, entertainment, conference space, 2 hotels and even residential units. Built in the brutalist architectural style, the imposing complex features heavy concrete and glass structure.  There’s a great collection of public art including the dramatic 4 story tall “The Tulip” by John C. Portman, Jr located in building 4.  There is a self-guided art tour – Here

As you move through this modernist space, the architecture is played up to its full advantage with lights that come on at dusk.  Stairs are lit from below with warm light to create a dramatic contrast with blue sky above.

The Embarcadero Center offers stunning views of other iconic San Fransisco buildings such as the Transamerica Building above and the Ferry Building below. 

If you are planning a trip to San Francisco, I recommend spending time just wandering around this complex to enjoy the structure and the artwork.  If you are on a budget, this is a great place to bring your lunch.  There are many open-air courtyards and walkways with benches and tables to picnic. 

Or take a moment to enjoy a drink at the Hyatt Regency San Francisco lobby bar to enjoy the soaring lobby and dramatic sculpture “Eclipse” by Charles Perry.  This space once held the Guinness World Record for the largest hotel lobby.   You might even recognize the space from movies such as “The Towering Inferno,” “Time After Time,” or “High Anxiety.”