Skip to main content

Sam’s Anchor Cafe

A restaurant renovation of a beloved waterfront institution that demanded deference for both history and nostalgia.

In its 100 years of existence, this institution had only had two owners but a bevy of loyal locals who have nursed a beer or three on its harborfront deck while watching the sun set. The dynamic friction caused by remaining faithful to Sam’s history while creating something younger and fresh informed many of our design decisions. The original art deco back bar was lovingly restored and beautiful blue terrazzo floors with brass inlay were poured. A large glass door was installed, creating a much-needed flow, from the dining room to deck. Long forgotten dining rooms were given new nautical energy with white-washed rafters and walls of vertical slat wood while vintage photographs of the restaurant remind diners that Sam’s may be looking forward but it will always be rooted in its past.

Full Service Dining
Tiburon, CA

SCOPE

  • Interior design
  • Project management
  • Construction management
  • Procurement
  • Custom Furniture Fabrication

DESIGN ELEMENTS

— Layered rustic wood finishes

— Restored art deco back bar

— Vintage sea air patina pendant lights

The
Details

“Sam’s had originally coined this spot ‘a non-exclusive Yacht Club’ and we wanted to make sure we kept that sentiment intact.”