Swedish American Hall
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2174 Market Street
San Francisco, CA 94114
Contact: Manager
Phone: 415/431-7578
www.cafedunord.com
Request a proposal for your event from Swedish American Hall
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Description
Built just a year after the great 1906 earthquake, the Swedish American Hall has survived a century of changes outside its walls: Market Street has become a busy, fast-paced thoroughfare. Step through its portals, however, and that simpler, more tranquil world of yesteryear still exists.
Designed by Swedish architect August Nordin, this gracefully gabled edifice was built and has been continuously run by the Swedish Society since 1907. As you look around the interior, it becomes immediately clear that Nordin was a stickler for fine materials and workmanship. Hardwood floors of Brazilian cherry inlaid with maple lead to the stairway with its lacy cutwork, and up to the second level. Here, guests can check coats at the cloakroom desk—a reminder of an era when ladies and gents wore elaborate wraps—before entering the capacious Freja Ballroom. Named for the Swedish goddess of love and fertility, and as meticulously detailed as a fine wedding cake, the ballroom soars two stories to a broad beamed ceiling. This room has played host to scores of celebrities, including Princess Victoria of Sweden, who celebrated the 100th anniversary of the Nobel Peace Prize here in 2001. Cherry-stained Douglas fir paneling and a balcony featuring more delicate cutwork add to the room’s Old World charm. Seating options include a number of handsomely carved hardwood chairs that look like thrones. Two skylights let in plenty of light without sacrificing privacy, and the large stage and solid maple floor make the room a favorite of revelers, musicians and groups like the San Francisco Blue Grass Festival, who claim the acoustics are "very sharp."
From the Ballroom, enter Balder Hall, named after the Norse god of beauty, joy and reconciliation. The intimacy and warmth of this wood-paneled salon make it a convivial setting for hors d’oeuvres, bar setup and before- and after-dinner gatherings. A second piano (there’s a baby grand in the Ballroom), this one an old Schirmer, is perfect for a little off-stage entertainment. Guests seeking a secluded spot for a private tte—tte can steal away to the tiny anteroom just off Balder Hall. It’s a cozy nook, with leaded glass windows that overlook Market Street.
Take the party up one more flight of stairs to the mezzanine level. There you will find Valhalla, named for the otherworldly Norse hall of heroes. Like its namesake it’s a large room, but it comes with a modern amenity the mythological hall didn’t have—a spacious and totally up-to-date kitchen conveniently adjacent. Valhalla is just the spot for a small reception or a buffet, and the balcony around the corner provides an appropriately lofty perch from which to observe additional festivities below in the Ballroom.
Whether you’re planning a wedding, business meeting or private party, the Swedish American Hall will give your event the distinctive flavor of another country, another time.
Capacity
Ceremony |
Reception/Special Events |
Meetings |
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Max. Seated Indoors: 300 Max. Seated Outdoors: |
Max. Seated Indoors: 225 Max. Seated Outdoors: Max. Standing Indoors: 300 Max. Standing Outdoors: |
Max. Seated: 300 |
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CEREMONY CAPACITY: Freja Ballroom including the Mezzanine seats 300. |
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Fees & Deposits
For weddings and special events, a $500/damage deposit and a signed contract are required to reserve your date. The rental fee is due 30 days prior to the event. Rental fees range $1,900–2,900, depending on spaces and hours rented. Tables and chairs (limited to stock on hand), setup and removal of furniture, cleanup and an on-site manager are all included in the rental fee. A security fee may be additional.
For business functions, fees are based on number of rooms booked, hours used and services requested. Call for details.
Availability
Year-round, daily.
CateringProvidedBYO AlcoholBYOSites UsesCeremoniesWedding Receptions Special Events, Parties Business Functions/Meetings Rehearsal Dinners Services/AmenitiesCatering: Cafe du Nord is the preferred caterer; other caterers welcomeKitchen Facilities: mostly equipped; use fee extra for outside caterers Tables & Chairs: provided Linens, Silver, etc.: through caterer Restrooms: wheelchair access first floor only Dance Floor: Freja Ballroom maple floor Bride's & Groom's Dressing Area: yes Parking: onstreet, garage nearby and local lots; valet available Accommodations: no guestrooms Telephone: pay phone Outdoor Night Lighting: access only Outdoor Cooking Facilities: no Cleanup: provided View: Market St. and historic Market St. trains |
MusicIndoorsWheelchair AccessAccess LimitedSite ViewsNo ViewSite TypeBanquet/Events FacilityHistoric/Landmark Building Ballroom RestrictionsAlcohol: through catererSmoking: not allowed Music: amplified OK with restrictions Wheelchair Access: limited access Insurance: liability required Other: decorations restricted, no confetti |
Wondering what CBA or BYO means?
415/431-7578
www.cafedunord.com
Email or request a proposal for your event from Swedish American Hall
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