3636 Washington, on the market for $15 million

The beautiful Presidio Heights home located at 3636 Washington Street has recently gone on the market for $15,000,000, listed by Susan McBride and Lisa J Wolfe of TRI Coldwell Banker.

This distinguished and historically significant house was commissioned by Adolph Coors (founder of The Coors Brewing Company) as a gift to his daughter, Louise “Lulu” Coors, upon her marriage to Dr. Henry Berent Albert Kugeler in 1903.  The couple lived at 2210 Baker Street until 1910 when, according to tax records, the Washington Street home was completed under the direction of architect T. Paterson Ross.

The Kugelers, who lived at the home with their daughter and two sons, were a socially prominent couple. They held a grand dinner and dance at the home in 1913 that was covered by the San Francisco Chronicle, and even Mrs. Kuegler’s teas and luncheons there were considered socially notable.

Following Dr. Krueger’s death, the house was sold in 1916 to Frederick W. Dohrmann Jr. for $60,000. Since then, it has continued to be occupied by an interesting variety of people. At one point it housed the Miss Wilkins Private School, and until the 1980s the International Insititute for the Translation of Buddhist Texts.  The current owner, Brook Byers, is a senior partner at Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers.

In 1985-1986, the house underwent upgrades to its structural, electrical and plumbing systems. “A majority of the interior surfaces were completely refinished,” according to the selling agents, who noted that “Many of the home’s unique turn-of-the-century architectural details were restored to their prior glory.”

According to the agents, the 8-bedroom residence, reportedly just under 10,000 square feet, is “situated from north to south, which allows incredible light from all sides throughout the day, and it is perfectly positioned to provide extraordinary views of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco Bay and the Presidio.”

No doubt the wonderful Presidio Heights locations is what originally drew the Kugeler family to 3636 Washington over 100 years ago, and will continue to delight its new residents in the near future.

Pacific Heights mansion by Samuel Newsom for sale

The architecturally significant home at 2698 Pacific Avenue, built by Samuel Newsom in 1904, has recently gone on the market for just under $10 million, giving us a rare opportunity to take a look at the fine detail inside.

Featured in at least two books on Bay Area architecture, including “Gables and Fables: A Portrait of San Francisco’s Pacific Heights” by Anne and Arthur Bloomfield, the home was designed in a Classical Revival style, with a gorgeous portico inspired by a Roman temple.

Bloomfield wrote that 2698 Pacific is one of the best homes built by the famous architect. “The temple portico is beautiful, the symmetry of the house, almost a cube, satisfies,” he says, “and the siting is perfect.”

Represented by luxury real estate agent Joel Goodrich, who is well known to readers of San Francisco Luxury Living, the 12,667 square foot mansion includes eight bedrooms, seven baths, two powder rooms, seven fireplaces, two libraries, four offices, a sitting room, two terraces, a formal dining room, a kitchen with separate butler’s pantry, a ballroom converted into a giant family/entertainment room, and motor court for six to seven cars parking.

More information about the home can be found at joelgoodrich.com

Entrance hall with magnificent wood paneling, grand-scale architectural detail and double staircase

An exquisite wrought-iron balustrade

“The beautiful colonnade-style second floor landing is graced with classical Corinthian columns and graceful arches, fabulous gilded grass cloth wall finishes and crowned by an artistic Tiffany-style stained glass skylight with intricately carved molding,” says listing agent Joel Goodrich.

Tiffany-style skylight

“The elegantly proportioned living room enjoys magnificent ceiling height, beautiful trellis-patterned plaster ceiling decoration, elegant picture and crown moldings, hand-painted wood floors, and an irreplaceable sculpted marble antique fireplace,” according to Goodrich.

Library with beamed ceilings

The banquet-sized formal dining room

The view from 2698 Pacific Avenue

Sotheby’s International agent Gregg Lynn gave Forbes.com a private tour of the stunning penthouse atop the St. Regis in San Francisco, which has been put on the market for $49,000. At 20,000 square feet, the 6-bedroom showcase is “the largest new-construction condo in the world,” according to Lynn.

Dining table in Tucker & Marks’ dining room (Photo: Matthew Millman)

Now in its 34th year, the San Francisco Decorator Showcase again drew hundreds of submissions from leading interior designers throughout the Bay Area eager to show off their creativity. But only a few got the opportunity to display their talents at the 1929 French Normandy-style home, designed by Albert L. Farr. There was universal agreement that the outcome was a huge success, and the owners and listing agents (the home is on the market with David Barrett of Warwick Properties and Joel Goodrich of Coldwell Banker) could not have been more pleased with the transformation.

“It is really wonderful to see this historic residence restored and brought into the 21st century.”
Joel Goodrich

Staircase at the 2010 Decorator Showcase (Photo: Moanalani Jeffrey)

This year the design community says farewell to Executive Director Delanie Borden who is known for her infinite charm and patience. After ten years she wanted to hand over the reigns to a new generation, and this time she was shadowed by her successor Michaele M. James. Together they coordinated a most successful showcase that highlights the skills of almost thirty talented interior designers, architects, landscape designers and artists. The average person may not realize the efficiency and finesse it takes to organize such an extensive renovation in only three months. My hat goes off to these ladies!

Detail of 2nd floor sitting room designed by Charles De Lisle (Photo: David Duncan Livingston)

HIGHLIGHTS FROM SFDC 2010

Upon entering this gracious home immediately to the right is the powder room designed by Matthew Turner of MacCaul Turner Design who drew inspiration from the myth of Narcissus, which he felt should lend much reflection and also some darkness to his design.

Powder room (before)

Powder room (after)

After the jury accepted his design Matthew learned that the homeowners wanted something light. Although he had to make major revisions to his palette none of the magic of the original design was lost. Each component makes subtle references to the myth, as the ‘vanity’, which is real rift-sawn white oak in contrast to the faux wood finish on the walls.

This major contribution to the success of the roomcame from the talented decorative artist Katherine Jacobus whose most meticulous faux bois work on the walls and silver linen texture on the ceiling are simply exquisite. Together they took an overworked and dated closet and powder room and turned it into a timeless and masculine space, which offers function while intriguing our senses.

Katherine Jacobus & Matthew Turner

“Go ahead, step in and have your moment of Narcissism.”
Matthew Turner

“A moment? A moment for some, a lifetime for others!”
Suzanna Allen

Across from the lobby you enter a vestibule that leads into the generously scaled dining room designed by Tucker & Marks whose principal Suzanne Tucker not only succeeded with a most comfortable and inviting room that can serve more than one function, but also beautifully showcased her new fabric collection, such as the floral drapery fabric, which has a border incorporated into the yardage.

Dining room (before)

Dining room (after). Designed by Tucker & Marks (Photo: Matthew Millman)

A perfect balance of casual and elegant it is not only a place for dining, but also a light-filled retreat for reading, listening to music and conversing, as Suzanne added a grand bookcase along the back wall, a large dry bar near the entrance and a generously-sized curved sofa in the bay window. Contemporary art and objects, such as the portentous “Horny” bronze table lamp from Blackman Cruz, add contrast and relevance to this otherwise feminine and light dining room. This is a place where you can get happily lost in the details.

Bar in dining room. (Photo: Matthew Millman)

The kitchen was a challenging space to configure, long and narrow, with an enclosed staircase and a dark pantry breaking up the back area. Jennifer Hershon and JoAnn Hartley of Hershon Hartley Design took a chef’s approach and built the design like well-thought-out recipe.

Kitchen, before (Photo: courtesy of Hershon-Hartley Design)

Kitchen (after). Designed by Hershon-Hartley Design. (Photo: Margot Hartford)

They used neutral tones, subtle colors and textures to visually expand the width of the space. Materials included white oak for the floors, a combination of natural and painted quarter-swan oak for the cabinets, CaesarStone on the counter tops, walnut and steel for the island, and cast concrete tile by Andrew Fleischman on the backsplash behind the range. Venetian plaster by Affinity Studios was not only used on the walls, it also covered the hood above the range, which consisted heavily troweled plaster embossed with real giant Tasmanian tree fern fronds.

Kitchen designed by Hershon-Hartley Design. (Photo: Margot Hartford)

The breakfast nook was carved from a small corner next to the staircase. A built-in leather and fabric banquette and round table make maximal use of the awkward space. Now the kitchen now is not only up to date and more functional, but it also appears brighter and more comfortable, as a visitor noted, “I could live in here.”

Breakfast nook, before. (Photo: courtesy of Hershon-Hartley)

Breakfast nook (after). Designed by Hershon-Hartley Design (Photo: Margot Hartford)

The library, one of the most popular rooms during the selection process, went to Darin Geise of Coup d’Etat, who had earned much respect last year with an amazing transformation of a basement closet. His “Hall of Wisdom and Enlightenment” is a true reflection of the aesthetic of his showroom, dark, masculine and warm with touches of whimsy and surprise, like the red velvet wing chairs with Anglo-Indian gilded canopies fit for a king.

Rendering for presentation by Coup d’Etat. (Image: Courtesy of Coup d’Etat)

Library designed by Darin Geise. (Photo: Matthew Millman)

The room is layered with unique furnishings, curious objects, tons of antique leather books in various languages, a unique infinity mirror over the mantel, and an eclectic grouping of art including a large painting called “Taiho Rock” (turned on its side) by landscape designer and artist Topher Delaney and a photographic study of nests by Sharon Beales.

Darin used bold scale with Topher’s painting, the imposing spherical chandelier made from rusted metal banding and the Silo light installation next to the leather sofa, which is comprised of industrial grain lids and is strangely reminiscent of some medieval torture device. So why does it feel right in the room?

Library designed by Darin Geise. (Photo: Matthew Millman)

Darin Geise. (Photo: Matthew Millman)

Moving on to the second floor, the master bedroom suite underwent the biggest transition architecturally, as it had the most awkward layout. Shelby de Quesada in collaboration with her husband Jorge de Quesada of De Quesada Architects completely reconfigured the space to create a luxurious retreat for the home’s future owners.

New floor plan for master bedroom suite by De Quesada Architects (Drawing: De Quesada Architects)

Originally the entrance was where the bed is now situated, and the bedroom was flanked by two oddly configured spaces, a combination of a closet and bathroom on one side and a Jacuzzi tub recessed in a raised carpeted platform and more closets on the other. The new layout is not only much more functional, but also provides more interesting focal points. Upon entering the room the light-filled gallery catches the eye, and the bed is tucked away to the right while still taking advantage of the views through the bay windows.

Master bedroom designed by Shelby de Quesada and Quesada Architects (Photo: Margot Hartford)

Shelby described the overall design concept as a contemporary adaption of Neo-Classical principals. The walls were treated in traditional Grasello Venetian plaster, expertly executed in shades of café au lait by Willem Racké. The Klismos-style bed from Therien Studio Workshops anchors the room furnished with a mixture of antiques with classical lines and exquisite woods. Thierry Chantrel’s living green console and plant arrangements truly bring the gallery to life with succulents and air plants.

Gallery designed by Shelby de Quesada and Quesada Architects. (Photo: Margot Hartford)

The warm palette continues into the bathroom pairing pear wood with more Venetian plaster, white Calacatta marble and nickel-plated trim and fittings. Nods to designer for the separate toilet room and overall to a very successful transformation.

Double vanity with pearwood and calacatta counter tops and backsplash. (Photo: Margot Hartford)

Will Wick’s room immediately took me out of San Francisco, away to a place somewhere in the Mediterranean, perhaps occupied by an artistic American woman with a minimal and modern aesthetic. I guess Will got his point across, as his inspiration was a guest quarter in Mongibello, Sicily.

Guest bedroom designed by Will Wick. (Photo: Patrik Argast)

Pale gray plaster walls and limed oak floors serve as the base for an eclectic mix of rustic and masculine furnishings, which invoke a sense of cool austerity. The minimal décor is accentuated by a grouping of interesting portraits on one wall and a very large photograph of water by Richard Misrach on the other. This ethereal guestroom definitely transports you to another place.

Guest bedroom designed by Will Wick. (Photo: Patrik Argast)

The adjoining dressing room and bathroom were designed by showcase newcomers Cecilia Sagrera Hill and George Brazil of Sagrera Brazil who envisioned a retreat for a young lady who had moved back home after graduating from University. Although a likely scenario these days most graduates may not have such a gorgeous boudoir designed for them.

Dressing area, before (Photo: courtesy of Sagrera Brazil)

There are many wonderful elements in the very small dressing room, from the charming aqua wallpaper, over the graceful Roman shade with two-color trim, the lovely custom dressing table and stool, to the marvelous glass bubble ceiling fixtures, and the iPad with wardrobe selections by Barney’s personal shopper especially compiled for the young fashionista.

Dressing area designed by Sagrera Brazil (Photo: David Duncan Livingston)

The pair’s attention to detail continued in the bathroom where they replaced the pedestal sink with a custom vanity and laid out the marble tub surround in an over-scaled chevron pattern and added an off-center shampoo niche. My favorite of the small touches was 3” by 3” painting from one of the designers’ personal art collection. Not a detail was overlooked! Cecilia and George achieved a perfect balance between timeless elegance and fashionable femininity.

Dressing area (before)

Dressing area designed by Sagrera Brazil (Photo: David Duncan Livingston)

George Brazil & Cecilia Sagrera-Hill (Photo: Moanalani Jeffrey)

The guestroom designed by Marion Philpotts and Jonathan Staub on the second floor was described by the designers as “Elemental Luxe” in where they went for a fresh, natural Asian island feel, quite possibly inspired by the location of their second office in Hawaii. They set pale neutrals and textures against a turquoise Chinese daybed painted with automobile paint for durability. Also here the walls had a lot to say with wallcovering from Nobilis, one side in a silver paper covered with lacy handmade paper and the rest with “Papier Bois”, which has a light oak texture.

Guest bedroom designed by Marion Philpotts & Jonathan Staub (Photo: Matthew Millman)

They also extended their design out to the terrace where they added a splash of color with orange wire chairs. The warmth of the outside successfully contrasted their cool and soothing sleeping quarters.

Terrace off the guest bedroom designed by Marion Philpotts & Jonathan Staub (Photo: Moanalani Jeffrey)

Jonathan Staub (Photo: Moanalani Jeffrey)

The adjacent closet and bathroom got a distinctive makeover by of De Meza + Architecture + Interiors, also first-timers at the showcase this year. In their “Modernism Talks Back” bathroom Gregg de Meza and his team of hardworking ladies, namely Jennifer Gustafson and Michelle Nelson, did not go the understated route, as many of the other designers, when they chose black and white contrasted by bright yellow as their color scheme.

Guest bathroom, before (Photo: courtesy of De Meza + Architecture + Interiors)

Guest bathroom (after). Designed by De Meza + Architecture + Interiors (Photo: Shae Rocco)

To heighten the contrast and to infuse whimsy they used a black and white ½” mosaic tile by Trend USA with the quote “wash behind your ears” repeated in the shower and a dizzying custom pattern on the floor that only appears random. From what Gregg explained it was a very deliberate pattern they had created, and it came with a very detailed map for installation.

Guest bathroom designed by De Meza + Architecture + Interiors (Photo: Shae Rocco)

They designed a vanity whose details on the exterior are reminiscent of those on the existing closet doors, but whose interior is a cleverly thought-out space-saver with plenty of storage lined in bright yellow for a wake-up kind of surprise. They also painstakingly painted the inside of the closet drawers in yellow. DMA’s first showcase room debuted with a splash and with no detail overlooked.

Guest bathroom designed by De Meza + Architecture + Interiors (Photo: Shae Rocco)

Mary Hardy and her son Gregg de Meza (Photo: Moanalani Jeffrey)

“Eat more bacon every day” a little girl responded when asked by Gregg de Meza about what the shower wall would read.

Anastasia Faiella in collaboration with Rothblatt Architecture took the second floor kitchenette from drab and uninviting space to a treat that anyone would appreciate on his or her bedroom floor. Anastasia and her collaborators got a rid of the opening into the adjacent sitting room and reconfigured the whole layout. They kept it light and airy with pale walls in a raw and troweled plaster finish with a pigmented top coat executed in an ever so subtle fashion by Ted Sogyi of Probert Art, white cabinetry, gray “Flatiron” marble bricks on the backsplash and Carrara marble on the counter tops.

Kitchenette, before (Photo: courtesy of Faiella Design)

Kitchenette (after). Designed by Faiella Design (Photo: Chi Fang)

This generously sized kitchenette has all the essentials needed to satisfy a midnight craving, such as a large sink, a microwave, Fisher Paykel’s drawer dishwasher, a two-drawer-combo refrigerator and wine fridge from U-Line, and Miele’s built-in whole bean coffee system. Could anyone ask for more?

Kitchenette designed by Faiella Design (Photo: Chi Fang)

Next door in the official second floor sitting room Charles de Lisle got creative in covering the outdated floral wallpaper on the walls. Inspired by all the smocking and ruching in fashion Charles had been dying to use ruffles and such. If your clients won’t let you use ruffles in their homes what better place than a showcase to install 200 yards of black and white gingham as a wall treatment?

Second room sitting room, before (Photo: courtesy of Charles De Lisle)

My memories of gingham took me back to my childhood of dirndl dresses and aprons. But my brain went to different universe when I entered this room. The black and white ruched walls with ruffled tops and bottoms were contrasted with white, gray and bright chartreuse yellow, and furnishings that are decidedly modern and paired down. My memories of the Alps have faded into space. Inspired by Frances Elkin and Michael Taylor, Charles put his modern and offbeat spin on the room. I feel that showcase houses should be inspiring, and this room is unexpected — perhaps not everyone’s cup of tea, but it gets a strong nod from me.

Second floor sitting room (after). Designed by Charles De Lisle (Photo: David Duncan Livingston)

The chairs upholstered in custom-dyed chartreuse hemp twill and the minimal brass floor lamp are designs of the CDL Workshop. The armoire was constructed from an art-shipping crate, the benches from I-beams covered in cushions fashioned from moving blankets, and the fire place mantel out of perforated galvanized steel. These are humble materials taken to another level. Charles created a sophisticated and intriguing room full of surprises.

Second floor sitting room designed by Charles De Lisle (Photo: David Duncan Livingston)

Another designer going against the staid grain was Michael Burg who fell in love with a tiny attic room that had a corner sink in it. With bold strokes he transformed a tiny attic room into sexy chamber.

Attic room, before (Photo: courtesy of Michael Burg)

When Michael first saw the space it reminded him of the many small European hotel rooms he had stayed in. He even kept what other designers may have considered flaws, such as the corner sink and the exposed radiator. These more humble aspects are set against bold strokes. He covered the walls and ceiling with a black wallcovering with a subtle fretwork pattern, and thought of the essentials, something to rest on, something to regenerate, and something to inspire the mind.

Attic room (after). Designed by Michael Burg (Photo: Scot Meacham Wood)

Attic room designed by Michael Burg (Photo: Scot Meacham Wood)

So the main pieces are a tufted Napoleon-3rd-style red leather campaign bed and Edwardian lounge chair, a vintage glass vitrine with toiletries and piccolo bottles of champagne and liquor, and a mortician’s table with a mini TV, and a Louis-XVI-style secretaire. Michael designed a room that is utterly unafraid and charmingly enveloping.

Michael Burg (Photo: Moanalani Jeffrey)

“No, it is the wife of the violin maker Bussotti giving birth in “The Red Violin.”
Michael Burg, to someone wondering what the strange noises were coming from miniature TV.

In another small attic space Cecilie Starin aimed to create a space for contemplation and reading, which she called “Ivory Tower: A Room for Thought”.

Aupair room, before (Photo: courtesy of Cecilie Starin)

The focal point is a French day bed with a linen canopy and luscious pillows, perfectly fitted in between the windows. Despite a generous amount of furniture the small room does not feel cramped, and there are interesting details everywhere, like the rustic chandelier by Jim Misner made from vintage parts, and the stunning stenciled cream and tan custom wallpaper in a crackled linen look by Jennifer La Pierre on the ceiling. An open metal bookcase is filled with baskets, boxes and objects, arranged in a slightly haphazard fashion, giving the sense that they hadbeen collected over time on various traveling adventures. The result is a reflection of how Cecilie likes to live and most inviting to visitors.

Sitting room (after). Designed by Cecilie Starin (Photo: Cecilie Starin)

Cecilie Starin & Buzz Kaplan (Photo: Moanalani Jeffrey)

“I found it very interesting when several different people over the last few weeks have mentioned my
room has a “steampunk” vibe to it. I love that!”
Cecilie Starin

Study designed by Brian Dittmar (Photo: David Duncan Livingston)

Brian Dittmar’s debut at the showcase came with immediate accolades from Diane Dorrans Saeks who detailed his process before the rooms were even open to the public. Brian’s study was perhaps the most personal room in the house reflecting his lifelong passion for horology. A collection of time pieces from various periods are displayed throughout, which include an 1860s French “Portico” clock, an Art Deco wall clock, a 1950s German “Hoop” clock, unusual hour glasses, an armillary, antique pocket watches from Brian’s grandfather, and a one-of-a-kind “Skeleton” wall clock by furniture designer and metal artist Paul Benson who also created the floor lamp besides the custom wing chair.

Study designed by Brian Dittmar (Photo: David Duncan Livingston)

Time was also subtly reflected in many of the furnishings, as in the custom rug with the quote “Nothing is a waste of time if you use the experience wisely” by Auguste Rodin and the mirror with a poem by John Muir about how time relates to the earth etched upon it. Hard to tell what time it is in here, but time very well spent by Brian.

Brian Dittmar (Photo: Moanalani Jeffrey)

Val Fiscalini utilized every inch of the oddly shaped petite attic bathroom and maximized space with a wall-hung vanity from Kohler in the shape of a hat box, a wall faucet and narrow shelves. Reflecting the light from the small windows and expanding the space is a mirrored wall that consists of an oval Venetian-style mirror mounted on an mirror panel etched in a large Fortuny-inspired pattern, which was also applied onto wallpaper by Jennifer La Pierre for continuity.

Attic bathroom (before)

Attic bathroom (after). Designed by Val Fiscalini (Photo: Will Chubb)

The tub was replaced with an open shower with a partial frameless glass panel. Honed Avorio marble lines the wall of the shower and on the floor an ivory ceramic tile simulating the texture of pebbled leather is bordered in a thin line of the same tile in chocolate. Val took a tiny, awkward and drab bathroom to an understated jewel box.

Attic bathroom designed by Val Fiscalini (Photo: Will Chubb)

Benjamin Dhong was awarded the attic room right next door with breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge through the small dormer windows. Inspired by the romance of Parisian garrets and the birds-eye view Benjamin called it “The Aerie” and played on a theme of skies, trees, and birds. The palette is comprised of warm grays, taupes, creams and teal, with touches of ivory, gold and ebony.

Attic sitting room designed by Benjamin Dhong (Photo: David Duncan Livingston)

The walls were painted by Linda Horning with the subtlest shadows of tree branches in a foggy greenish gray. Furnishings are a mixture of traditional and modern: a French Directoire daybed and a 1960s bone marquetry table with chalice base by Anthony Redmille from Lebreton Gallery, a parchment-covered stool inspired by Jean Michel Frank from Coup d’Etat, the “Egg” chair by Arne Jacobsen upholstered in a shimmery cream velvet cut in the shape of clouds, and the “Tete de la Femme” lamp by Giacometti. A statue of the “Winged Victory” from Candace Barnes Antiques and a wood sculpture of a Titmouse bird and her nest introduced Avian elements to the design. Benjamin’s garret is certainly the chic nest he dreamed of high above the Bay.

Benjamin Dhong (Photo: Moanalani Jeffrey)

“Your zebra was killed, mine died while having sex.”
Benjamin Dhong to Cecilie Starin when noticing they both used a zebra rug.

IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS

One of the many qualities a talented designer brings to the table is an attention to details. The shape of a chair arm, the curve of a table leg, the exact shade of a certain color, the trim on a pillow, the texture of a custom finish, the distinctive grouping of objects, all of those small things can make a huge difference. Upon closer inspection many of these special details were revealed in this showcase.

A 19 century Spanish tole chandelier and wall paper on the ceiling in Tucker & Marks’ dining room (Photo: Matthew Millman)

A pleated valance with nailhead details in Hershon-Hartley Design’s kitchen (Photo: courtesy of Hershon-Hartley Design)

A tiny painting above the towels and the bookmatched marble on the tub surround in Sagrera Brazil’s bathroom (Photo: David Duncan Livingston)

A ruffled header on the shirred wall treatment in Charles de Lisle’s sitting room (Photo: courtesy of Charles de Lisle)

A chandelier by Jim Misner and ceiling treatment by Jennifer La Pierre in Cecilie Starin’s sitting room (Photo: Cecilie Starin)

The subtle mural by Linda Horning in the sitting room designed by Benjamin Dhong (Photo: Benjamin Dhong)

The new Lutron “Vierti” dimmer switch in De Meza + Architecture + Interiors' bathroom. (Photo: Shae Rocco)

Paul Benson’s custom wall clock in Brian Dittmar’s study (Photo: Emily Payne)

And All That Art

Of course none of the rooms were short on art in one form or another. Shelby de Quesada and Brian Dittmar consulted art advisors Baxter & Cook to put the perfect collections together for them. Shelby wanted Bay Area figurative artists, and Brian needed pieces that supported his theme of horology.

“Untitled” painting by Mario Palacios, “Quboids” bronze sculpture by Adam P. Gale, “Untitled Figure” watercolor by Nathan Oliveira, and “Piano With Blue” by William Theophilus Brown (Photo: Margot Hartford)

“Stitch in Time” handstitched linen pieces by Ruth Laskey in Brian Dittmar’s study (Photo: David Duncan Livingston)

Other designers worked directly with galleries. Among them were the Dolby Chadwick Gallery who assisted De Meza + Architecture + Interiorsand Benjamin Dhong and Silverman Gallery who loaned works to Charles de Lisle.

“New Territory” painting by Gary Ruddell in De Meza + Architecture + Interiors’ bathroom (Photo: Shae Rocco)

“Departure Indigo” painting by Gary Ruddell in Benjamin Dhong’s sitting room (Photo: Emily Payne)

“Wind is blowing down the Mountain” and Wind is blowing the mountain down” by Christopher Badger in second floor sitting room designed by Charles De Lisle (Photo: David Duncan Livingston)

Fraenkel Gallery was assigned the foyer and staircase, spaces that are customarily given to galleries as generally no furnishings are needed. They put together a collection of 19th and 20th century photographers from various countries including Irving Penn, Lee Friedlander, Loewy and Puiseux and Hiroshi Sugimoto. They also commissioned Jefferson Mack of Mack Metal to create two light fixtures for them, one of which is called “Alva’s Helix” and spans 27’, hanging from the ceiling of the top floor and spiraling down to the first floor, while lighting all the art in the staircase.

“Storyville Portrait” by E. J. Bellcoq, initialed & printed by Lee Friedlander (Image: courtesy of Fraenkel Gallery)

John Bergruen Gallery selected works on paper for the second floor hallway from blue chip artists such as Wayne Thiebaud, Ed Ruscha and Lucian Freud.

Art installation in 2 floor bedroom corridor by John Bergruen Gallery with works by Lucian Freud (Photo: Moanalani Jeffrey)

“Anticipation is Beyond Us” pigment and gold on paper by Alexandrer Gorlizki from John Bergruen Gallery (Image: courtesy of John Bergruen Gallery)

Long one of the most desired addresses in San Francisco, 2006 Washington Street (designed by renowned architect, C.A. Meussdorffer in 1924) is a cooperative apartment building which some of the most important names in business, finance and philanthropy have called home while in the City.

Sometimes called the ‘crown jewel’ of Pacific Heights, it is set among a beautifully landscaped tranquil garden, in a location that provides some of the most stunning views of San Francisco and the Bay.

Juliet Flint De Baubigny, Alison Pincus and Jeffry Weisman

Apartment No. 4 was the recent setting for a glamorous party hosted by Alexis Traina, Alison Pincus, Susan Feldman and Scot Meacham Wood which was attended by author Sloan Barnett, venture capitalist Juliet Flint De Baubigny, architect Andrew Skurman, curator Serena Buell, art advisor Holly Baxter, publishers Gina Pell and Zem Joaquin, and designers Jeffry Weisman, Claudia Juestel, Ken Fulk and Kendall Wilkinson, among others.  Among such a refined group of people, this apartment drew universal appreciation.

Sloan Barnett and Holly Peterson

Currently for sale by Malin Giddings of TRI Coldwell Banker for $8,500,000, the full-floor apartment enjoys views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island and the bay along with the greenery of Lafayette Park.

“The spacious floor plan is ideal for elegant entertaining and comfortable City living,” according to Malin, pointing out that “the well-proportioned public rooms feature high ceilings, deep crown molding and lovely parquet floors.”

Living Room

The private elevator vestibule opens to the reception hall, with an adjoining powder room and guest closet.

The spacious living room features an ornate marble fireplace and tall bay windows to the water view.

French doors open to double view terraces.

The formal view dining room provides a perfect setting for elegant dinners.

The refined cooperative apartment at 2006 Washington Street was the perfect setting of a recent event for the design site One Kings Lane (onekingslane.com)

The paneled library with custom bookshelves and cabinets enjoys views of the neighboring Spreckels mansion (owned by Danielle Steel), and Golden Gate Bridge to the west.

The sunny corner master suite overlooks the greenery of Lafayette Park with Golden Gate Bridge views to the west.

The master bath features a tub, separate shower and an adjoining dressing room.

The guest bedroom/at-home office looks to the west and has a full bath.

Views from 2006 Washington

Offered at $8,500,000
Size: 4-bedrooms/4-baths, plus Maid’s Quarters with full bath
Further Information: www.sfproperties.com [Malin Giddings]
Photos (people): Drew Altizer [drewaltizer.com]
Photos (building and interior): San Francisco Association of Realtors MLS

To arrange a showing contact the listing agent, your preferred Realtor, or fill out this form to get further information via San Francisco Luxury Living.

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Jerry Rice in 2010

Former San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Jerry Rice recently put his Atherton home on the market for $14,750,000 (represented by longtime friend Pierre Buljan of Cashin Company).   Our friends at Haute Living recently spoke to Rice about the home, giving the kind of background on it that shows how much passion went into its creation.

Exterior of the 267 Atherton Avenue mansion

Lencioni Construction oversaw the custom build of the home, while Jerry’s wife Jacqueline worked with Malibu-Architects Ca. on the interiors. It took one year to design and three years after that to complete the build, at a reported price of nearly $1,000 per square foot.

The gated estate is perched on 1.4 acres and set 250 yards back from the street. Rice spent over a year looking for the right location for his home.

“The lot is really unique for the area,” Rice told Haute Living. “Because it is set so far back from the road, it’s perfect because it gives us privacy. You don’t want a house that sits right on Atherton Avenue because of the noise and the traffic. The beauty of the lot and the long driveway for us as a family was that the kids and I could play outside anytime without having to worry about security or privacy issues.”

The three-story French chateau-style mansion, includes six bedroom suites, seven full baths and three half baths, a library, office, gourmet kitchen, state-of-the-art movie theater, seven-car garage, and a 5,000+ square foot basement level that includes a game room, full bar, wine room, full gym with sauna and steam room, and a crafts room.

“The family room is for Sundays and watching a lot of football,” says Rice.

The house contains approximately $2 million worth of electronic equipment. The family room is equipped with a huge plasma television as the focal point, surrounded by six smaller TVs.

Movie Theatre

The gym reportedly has more than $500,000 worth of equipment, including two treadmills, free weights, a sauna, and steam room with cold-plunge shower.

Personal Gym

“That has been the most important part of the house for me,” Jerry said. “If I’m up late and can’t sleep, I can just trot downstairs for a workout and then relax in the sauna or rejuvenate with the cold plunge. I love it for privacy reasons, too. I love being able to get into my workout without having to consider the social aspects of going out to a gym.”

The Gift Wrapping Room

The 1.2 acre grounds are set behind gates with a pool, spa, covered veranda with built-in heaters and speakers, stone outdoor fireplace, a dog run/kennel, and a guest house with kitchenette and full bath.

Offered at $14,750,000
Size: 6-bedroom/11 baths, approx. 15,000 square feet
Further Information: pierrebuljan.com [Pierre Buljan]

To arrange a showing contact the listing agent, your preferred Realtor, or fill out this form to get further information via San Francisco Luxury Living.

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206 Palo Alto Avenue, San Francisco

If Tom Ford were to move to San Francisco, this would be his home. Built in 1938 atop Clarendon Heights, high above the City (yet still in the middle of it), this residence has the kind of openness and clarity one sees in homes associated with the designer (like the 1949 John Lautner home in Glendale that appears in “A Single Man,” or the 1955 Richard Neutra home that Ford shares with his partner in Bel Air.)

It is not a famous fashion designer, but one of San Francisco’s most important interior designers and his partner that currently own this home, and have recently put it on the market for $4,200,000 (represented by Jon Taylor of Sotheby’s International Realty.)

After purchasing it in 2003, the owners embarked on a thorough renovation of the residence with architect Mark English, creating the design showcase we see today.

Views of both the Golden Gate and Bay Bridge

But while the home itself is wonderful, it’s really the view that makes it breathtaking. This Clarendon Heights location is one of just a few spots in San Francisco where one can look at both the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay Bridge while barely turning one’s head.

The drama of the views, and recent renovations of quite a few homes in the neighborhood, is what has made Clarendon Heights one of the great underlooked areas of the City.  Indeed it was on Palo Alto Avenue that fashion designer Kenneth Cole recently ttended a private cocktail party in his honor (he arrived late because his driver took him to Palo Alto the town, not the street!)

The four-bedroom home consists of three levels with a media room, library, and multiple outdoor courtyards and decks that extend the spectacular living spaces to the out-of-doors.

Thoughtful and exquisite finishes are discernable throughout, from the superbly crafted glass and wood floating staircase to the stone surfaces and the walls of glass.

Function follows the beautiful forms in this impressive home evident from the Control 4 Home Automation system, motorized shades, abundant storage space and two car garage.

The residence was designed with a nod to classical style while melding different genres, creating a fresh and unique environment.

Situated on a wide lot on the highest residential street in San Francisco, this residence is extraordinary in every way.

Offered at $4,200,000
Size: 4-bedroom/3.5 bath, approx. 4340 square feet
Further Information: www.206paloalto.com [Jon Taylor]

To arrange a showing contact the listing agent, your preferred Realtor, or fill out this form to get further information via San Francisco Luxury Living.

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A gorgeous, palatial estate with breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay has recently gone on the market in Tiburon for $37 million according to Blockshopper.com.

The Paradise Drive property has its own beach with sweeping panoramic views of Gardini Del Paradiso and is located on approximately 8.5 secluded acres. There are 4 structures on the estate:

A Mediterranean, custom, 6-bedroom home with 10,000 square feet of living space and a 5,000 square foot basement.
A 2-bedroom beach house with spa, crocket lawn and boat lift.
A 3-bedroom caretakers house, surrounded by luxurious landscaped gardens.
A pool house and pavillion with in-ground pool and spa, in-gound trampeline, volley ball grass court, gazebo with large fireplace and room to entertain over 100 guests.

There is boat launch and walking trails throughout, as well as an underground wine cave and a provisional heli-copter landing site. Other amenities are a pilates room, suana, wine room, 800 square foot walk-in safe, fully automated green house, outdoor heaters, pool, 2 spas, PG&E back up generator, waterfall, 300 rose bushes, a hillside of lavender, an abundance of fruit trees and a vegetable garden.

Beautifully Landscaped by Leffingwell Associates

The Main House

Pool overlooking the Bay

The Beach House

The chairman of Concierge Asset Management, Maxwell Drever, and wife Janice Drever, have listed the palatial waterfront estate with Missy Echeverria of Sotheby’s International Realty.

Offered at $37,000,000
Size: 4 Homes on approx. 8.5 acres
Further Information: www.2900paradisedr.com [Missy Echeverria]

To arrange a showing contact the listing agent, your preferred Realtor, or fill out this form to get further information via San Francisco Luxury Living.

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Historic Home in St. Francis Wood Clears Hurdles to Become a Showcase

St. Francis Wood is renowned and sometimes feared in the building community for strict restoration codes and an expensive, time-consuming process to get exterior projects approved. Homeowners Noreen and Mike Heavey bought this home in August of 2002 and spent about 26 months from the date of purchase to wind their way through the process before they could move in.

The home, located at 250 Santa Paula, was designed and built in the 1920s by Angus McSweeney, a San Francisco architect, who is credited with having collaborated on one of the first designs of St. Mary’s Cathedral and for designing high rise apartment buildings in Russian Hill and Nob Hill. After McSweeny and his family moved out, a local attorney purchased it and later left the property vacant for over 25 years.

The Heavey’s bought the home (which at that point had become dilapidated) at a probate sale for over $900k and knew they had to put in well over $1million in construction to make it livable and up to a high standard of quality for their family.

Once one purchases a property in St. Francis Wood, the owner become a member of the home owners association and agrees to follow the strict guidelines of the Covenants Conditions and Restrictions (the code was first drafted in 1917 when the first parcels of land were sold, and renegotiated in 1950) that govern any work done on the exterior of the home; including all details such as: landscaping, paint colors, additions, window treatments, fences, materials used, and any remodeling effort that can be seen by neighbors.

A lengthy approval process ensues. For the Heavey’s that meant three rounds of drawings and approvals from neighbors as well as the St. Francis Homes Association. The board and the architectural committee rejected the first two proposals; and the third was the charm. A local, independent architect, Tom Branch, worked on all of the plans. Meanwhile, the family lived in a rental property awaiting their new home.

The enforcement of the Covenants Conditions and Restrictions (CC&Rs) is crucial to maintain the architectural integrity for the home and the neighborhood, which boasts a curvilinear street plan that created a “residence park,” laid out by the famed Olmsted Brothers.

Once the approval was granted the construction process began and finished in nine months. It included: installing an elevator; putting in a in new foundation with reinforced concrete to make the home earthquake safe and adding a new drainage system to replace the dilapidated one from the original construction.

The process really forced Mike and Noreen to get involved at a higher level of commitment than most homeowners can imagine. The home still retains its original Spanish style, but the owners replaced the front door because it was completely ruined. It is now a comfortable yet vast home complete with every modern amenity.

At the end of the process, Petree Knighton, the St. Francis Homes Association president, who is a former city planner with an engineering and architectural background, wrote a letter to the owner drooling over the house’s remodel: “I just couldn’t wait to tell you how thrilled I am over the aesthetic of your new home. It is going to be beautiful and you should be very proud to have worked within our system to achieve such (a) magnificent home. … I am hopeful that you have found the extra effort well worth it in the end.”

The owners have now lived at the 5-bedroom, 6-bath property, which has two street frontages on both Santa Paula and Terrace, (another hindrance to a smooth project, but well worth it to be on the back of a gorgeous park) for over five years. But now that the kids are older, they are downsizing and the home is listed for $2,995,000.

Offered at $2,995,000
Size: 5-bed, 6-bath
Further Information: www.SantaPaulaAve.com [Katy Dinner]

Represented by Katy Dinner of Paragon. To arrange a showing contact the listing agent, your preferred Realtor, or fill out this form to get further information via San Francisco Luxury Living.

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One of our favorite designers in San Francisco, Matthew Turner of MacCaul Turner Design, recently gave a televised tour on NBC of a gorgeous Pacific Heights townhome that took nine years to design and develop. Matthew was the interior designer on the project, with Fisher Weisman, and Louis H. Felthouse was the architect, with Josehart Construction Management in charge of construction.

Matthew Turner, Interior Designer for 2935 Pacific

It is only because this magnificent home on Pacific Avenue is currently for sale by Gregg Lynn of Sotheby’s International Realty for $12,900,000 that we are able to get this privileged tour inside. With new construction so rare in Pacific Heights, it will be a while before anything similar is available.

The Entrance Gallery has a walnut entablature, limestone/marble floors and elegant chandeliers. The owner liked the hand-forged iron door so much, “we decided to take that element and extend it elsewhere in the home,” says Matthew.

Servicing four levels, the Grand Stair Hall and generous Elevator landings feature sophisticated forged-iron grillwork and walnut handrails.

The Great Room is showcased by luxurious walnut-paneling on the north wall, soaring ceilings and oversized windows presenting outlooks to a Southern Garden and stunning City views. Hidden doors lead to a Powder Room with Waterworks fixtures or an elegant Wet Bar.

An oversized fireplace with vintage wood mantle and marble surround endow this room designed for grand-scale entertaining. Alternatively, concealed walnut pocket doors close to create a Private Retreat or Screening Room. A climate-controlled 800+ bottle Wine Room features a top-line dishwasher and refrigerator.

The Second Floor begins with a large Family Room with a fireplace and two view balconies. An adjacent Grand Kitchen designed with myriad top-line appliances and large center island of stunning Costa Esmerelda granite countertops opens to a Breakfast Area. Nearby, a large Butler’s Pantry features ample storage and laundry appliance.

The Dining Room features a balcony, coffered ceiling with silver-foil accent and locking Silver Closet.

The paneled Living Room enjoys Northern windows and beautiful neighborhood outlooks. An adjacent elegant Wet Bar, Powder Room and Study complement this Level. With its darkly paneled environment, and touches of light upholstery and color, the cozy library is designer Matthew’s favorite room in the house.

The Third Floor features a Master Suite with a balcony, oversized fireplace, dual Closets and a sumptuous Master Bath with Jerusalem limestone gold floors, soaking view tub, dual vanities, spa/steam Shower Room for two and Water Closet. This floor additionally features two Bedrooms with a shared Bath, two en-suite Bedrooms and a Laundry Room.

The stunning Roof Terrace Level has “everything you could possibly need for outdoor entertaining,” according to Matthew. It features 2,500 square feet of luxurious outdoor living: a full outdoor kitchen, a dining area, a lounging area, a 12-person stainless steel hot tub, and a room to keep you warm when the San Francisco fog rolls in.

Additionally, the Family/Guest Level features a three-bedroom, three-bathroom Apartment with Kitchen, Living and Dining Areas, as well as Garden and street access.

Matthew Turner filming “Open House” in the backyard.

The home is made complete by a Crestron Home Automation System, enabling local or remote management of sophisticated lighting, security, acoustic, media and mechanical systems.

Further Information: 2935 Pacific [2935pacific.com]
Further Information: Sotheby’s International Realty [sothebyshomes.com/norcal]
Further Information: Matthew Turner [maccaulturner.com/]
Video: LXTV Open House

• Offered at $12,900,000
• Size: 8-bed, 7-bath (3-half)

Represented by Gregg Lynn of Sotheby’s International Realty. Photos via the San Francisco Association of Realtors Multiple Listing Service.

To arrange a showing contact the listing agent, your preferred Realtor, or fill out this form to get further information via San Francisco Luxury Living.

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