Since 1979, San Francisco Interior designer Candra Scott, along with partner Richard Anderson, of Candra Scott & Anderson, have made a career out of the reinvention of landmark hotels, wineries and residential properties for clients, such as Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, Gallo of Sonoma, Far Niente/Nickel & Nickel Winery and Joie de Vivre Hotels. Scott and Anderson specialize in thematically inspired landmark hotels, many of which are on the National Registry of Historic Places. Their lively and highly individual designs are the results of "decorative archeological digs".

Throughout their careers Scott and Anderson have taken guests on journeys through the late 19th and early Twentieth centuries. They have recreated Thirties literary San Francisco in the Hotel Rex, the Victorian era in the Majestic Hotel, the 50's "Beat" scene in the Hotel Boheme, a 1920's fishing retreat and cabins for Lake o' the Woods, and an urban lodge in Portland's Governor Hotel.

"We begin with intensive research on the history of each hotel, the city, the era, and delve into the lives of perhaps a historical, literary or character. Our designs are always specific to a place. We do not do chain hotels, and we never repeat a concept or design. We create a completely original identity for the hotel. Besides the top-to-bottom restoration, we develop a novel marketing approach often including a new name, logo's and staff uniforms. Our goal is to create an authentic atmosphere, not a museum but a vital environment that is both timeless and cutting edge, with a thread of the eccentric," says Scott.

Both partners who admit they are obsessed with detail, willingly divide up their labor. Working with various craftsmen, Scott creates and oversees the production of the one-of -a-kind furnishings, while Anderson handles the architecture and project management. Together they excavate ideas for artwork, upholstery, cabinetry, textiles and accessories that form the foundation of their designs. They religiously scour auction catalogues, flea markets & tag sales, and will travel around the globe if necessary, to find just the right antique or artifact to complete a room.

The firm has recently completed the Hotel Icon (including Jean-Georges' BANK restaurant and Rande Gerber's WHISKEY BAR) in Houston, as well as the Nickel & Nickel Winery in Oakville. Current projects include The Fred MacMurray Ranch for Gallo of Sonoma, and the Fairmont's Sonoma Mission Inn.