18th - 23rd May
This hotel was recommended as a 4* hotel in San Francisco; it is not. I read concerning reviews before I left the UK but was assured that my stay would not be affected by the work being undertaken at the hotel. I booked to stay at the hotel for 5 nights. I was informed that the hotel were aware of my concerns and that they would be looking out for me and would ensure that we would not be inconvenienced by the renovation work. 
On checking in it was practically impossible to hear the receptionist because of the drilling on the ground floor. Despite previous assurances the receptionist was not aware of my concerns about the work being undertaken. The receptionist was however very pleasant and offered us a complimentary breakfast. We were checked into a room on the fourth floor (402?) facing Geary St. The room had not been renovated and was at best a 2* standard room. We were tired after a long flight and just wanted to get some sleep however at 1.30am we were awoken by people starting to leave a pub or club opposite called "Swag" and the noise got increasing louder only getting quiet again after 3.00am. It was so lound that you would have thought they were in the room with you.
I was so annoyed about the room and the noise that the following morning I requested a room move and again a very helpful receptionist arranged for us to be moved to room 1400 on the 14th floor and facing the back of the hotel. This room had been upgraded and was very pleasant. My only complaint about it was a peristant clicking noise throughout the night with pipes either heating up or cooling down. However as this was a significant improvement to the original room I did not raise it with the receptionist. 
I would not stay in this hotel again even after it has been renovated unless I was guaranteed a room on the top few floors facing the back of the hotel. 
One positive there was free coffee at reception but this does not make up for the standard of room.
I would also say that the staff who I encountered were at all times very pleasant and professional I felt sorry for them because I witnessed them having to deal with guests who were clearly not happy with their experience. I am sure they more than anyone else will be glad to see the renovations complete.