Alexandria Hotel and Annex, Napa

The Alexandria Hotel and Annex is a striking example of Mission Revival architecture, dating back to circa 1900-1910. The three-story brick structure features distinctive metal tile roofs, an unusual material believed to be made of tungsten. The hotel's two street-facing facades are identical on the top two floors, showcasing three square corner towers that emphasize its grandeur. Overhanging eaves, supported by modillions and dentils, add to the building's intricate detailing. The arched brick hood molds over the windows and the string courses dividing the towers into sections further enhance the structure’s architectural significance.

At some point, the adjacent building was annexed to the hotel and was redesigned to seamlessly match the original structure. The Annex, which actually predates the hotel, underwent significant modifications to integrate its façade with the main building, including the addition of a tile roof with modillions and dentils, as well as a matching string course. Notable features of both structures include arched and round-headed windows, wrought iron balconies, and a series of transoms above large plate glass windows.

The first floor of the hotel is marked by flat brick pilasters with Doric capitals, separating large plate glass windows and twelve-light transoms, which were once made of leaded glass in an elongated diamond pattern. The Annex, housing two separate shops, features matching transoms, pilasters, and glazed tile, ensuring visual harmony between the two buildings. The hotel’s wrought iron fire escapes, though not original, add a historic charm.