This Moderne building with Art Deco influences was constructed in 1938 with a two-way reinforced concrete post-and-beam structural system. Originally built with six floors, three floors were added in 1970.

The first floor has storefront windows and the other floors have double hung windows. Ornate Art Deco grill work is over the Franklin Street entrance. The first-floor storefront granite facade was renovated in 1985. Detailing of the exterior concrete walls consisted of a series of banding with sculptured block panels running vertically above the entryway to the sixth floor. There is a sidewalk canopy. The hotel has undergone two major modifications and several small renovations. In 1985, owners renovated the marquee to a design similar to the original.

The Baranof Hotel is currently managed by Westmark Hotels.

The Alaska Electric Light & Power building is visible in the photograph opposite the hotel on North Franklin Street.

The Baranof Hotel contributes to the Juneau Downtown Historic District.