San Francisco’s historic houses resist easy definition and carry the layered weight of reinvention. Over the years the city’s architectural essence has drifted through the work of writers such as Herb Caen, Rebecca Solnit, and Paul Goldberger. Solnit, in Infinite City, suggests that “San Francisco is a city of illusions, a city of transformation,” and that’s about as close as anyone comes to pinning down the shifting personality of its homes—never static, never quite the same twice.
In a city where the fog rolls uphill and light angles dramatically through slender Victorians, architecture becomes something closer to choreography. The houses in Pacific Heights tilt toward grandeur, all pressed cornices and polished ceremony. Duboce Triangle offers tighter geometries and sun-splashed parlors, where glass filters the last warmth of afternoon.
Over in Glen Park, a 1909 Edwardian stretches out beneath quiet trees, updated but still grounded in the sturdy vernacular of its street. Forest Hill, nestled west of Twin Peaks, keeps its secrets in wood beams and wisteria-wrapped gardens, while Noe Valley rises in sharp perspective—sky, shingles, and Bay views aligned in architectural harmony. These homes know their geography. They face the fog, catch the light, hold the line.
Five houses. Five chapters of a city that rewrites itself, but always leaves the original lines in the margins.
1. Renovated 1904 Beaux Arts Gem
Built in 1904 and meticulously renovated, this 5,416 square foot Beaux Arts residence is located in San Francisco’s Pacific Heights neighborhood and features five bedrooms and five bathrooms on a 0.08-acre lot.
Situated between Alta Plaza and Lafayette parks, the home offers multiple indoor and outdoor entertaining spaces, a south-facing garden, a media room, and a spa-quality primary suite with balcony and steam shower.
Priced at $8,250,000, it includes high-end appliances, smart home systems, and a two-car garage just 1.5 blocks from Fillmore Street.
Where is the Pacific Heights Neighborhood?
Pacific Heights is a neighborhood in San Francisco, California, located on elevated terrain with views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the Bay, and Alcatraz Island. It is known for its historic mansions, luxury homes, and consulate residences. The area includes parks like Lafayette and Alta Plaza and is close to Fillmore Street’s shops and restaurants. Pacific Heights is one of the city’s most exclusive residential neighborhoods.
Kitchen
Monochrome tones define the kitchen with black countertops and island base, contrasted by white cabinetry. Brass and cream barstools line the island beneath two wide pendant lights. Appliances and sink are integrated into the main island, with a commercial-style stove installed against the wall.
Dining Room
Curved wood-framed chairs with light cushions encircle a large oval table in this formal dining space. Built-in white molding and recessed lighting accent the perimeter while two abstract line drawings are displayed on the rear wall. A full-height window opens the room to outdoor greenery.
Home Office
A room with bay windows and glass double doors functions as a workspace with a glass desk and modern curved chairs. A large round mirror anchors the wall above an upholstered chair with a floor lamp beside it. Floating shelves are mounted on one side, holding sculptural decor.
Bedroom
Pale hardwood floors extend through a bedroom that includes a fireplace built into a white wall and a round mirror above it. Large windows on both sides and sliding doors at the end allow for daylight and access to a private balcony. A tall, padded headboard and bench frame the foot of the bed.
Backyard Lounge
Concrete pavers run between bamboo hedges framing a lounge area with cushioned seating and a square fire pit. At the rear, a short staircase leads to a covered patio opening into the home through wide folding glass doors. A hanging rattan chair is suspended near the foliage for a tucked-away reading spot.
Source: Jessica Branson @ Compass via Coldwell Banker Realty
2. Updated 1900 Victorian Classic
Nestled in the heart of Duboce Triangle, this exquisitely reimagined 1900 Victorian blends architectural heritage with modern luxury across 2,492 square feet. Behind its classic facade, the four-bedroom, five-bathroom home features original period details, soaring ceilings, a chef’s kitchen with Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, and direct access to a private garden retreat with built-in BBQ.
Priced at $3,385,000, additional highlights include a luxurious primary suite, a media-ready bonus room, two-car garage, and refined updates throughout.
Where is Duboce Triangle Neighborhood?
Duboce Triangle is a compact neighborhood in San Francisco, California, bordered by the Castro, Lower Haight, and the Mission District. It is centered around Duboce Park and known for its Victorian homes and easy transit access via Muni lines. The area has a quiet, residential feel while being close to lively commercial corridors. It also benefits from a mild microclimate compared to surrounding neighborhoods.
Living Room
A formal sitting room is positioned at the front of the house, framed by bay windows with stained glass accents and a detailed white fireplace surround. A small cream sofa and two chairs are arranged around a glass-top table in the center of the space. Ornate crown molding and a traditional chandelier complete the scene.
Dining Room
An adjacent dining room features a central fireplace, an upright piano, and a coffered ceiling with intricate painted designs. A six-seat wooden dining table sits in the middle, surrounded by traditional carved chairs. The room opens directly to a hallway and kitchen beyond.
Bedroom
One of the upper bedrooms occupies a bright corner space with tall bay windows and city views. A metal bedframe, white bench, and cream chaise are positioned across the polished parquet floor. Two vintage-style sconces flank a framed artwork above the bed.
Work Area
A workspace setup occupies a compact home office that features built-in desks, shelving, and double French doors leading outside. Two computer stations are arranged under a row of bookshelves with recessed lighting above. A sectional couch and storage ottoman round out the room’s layout.
Backyard Patio
A tiered backyard patio integrates a built-in grill, dining table, and sunken lounge bench wrapped in stone. Wooden fencing encloses the space, with trees and shrubs filling the raised beds behind. A staircase leads to the home’s upper level and blends with the wood tones of the garden structure.
Source: Michael B Harrington @ Sotheby’S International Realty via Coldwell Banker Realty
3. Reimagined Edwardian Residence
Set on a peaceful, tree-lined block in San Francisco’s Glen Park neighborhood, this fully reimagined Edwardian blends classic charm with modern design across three finished levels. Originally built in 1909 and expanded down to the studs, the three-bedroom, three-bathroom home features bay windows with southern views, a chef’s kitchen with custom maple cabinetry and quartz countertops, and seamless access to a private rear garden.
Priced at $3,498,000, it also includes a retreat-like primary suite with separate entrance, multiple flexible spaces, and a reinforced two-car garage just blocks from Glen Park Village, BART, and Glen Canyon Park.
Where is the Glen Park Neighborhood?
Glen Park is a neighborhood in San Francisco, California, located in the city’s southern region near Diamond Heights and Noe Valley. It features a small village center with shops, cafes, and the Glen Park BART station for easy transit access. The area includes Glen Canyon Park, offering trails and natural open space within city limits. Glen Park is primarily residential, with a mix of single-family homes and hillside views.
Living Room
Corner windows surround this upper-level living area, offering views of rooftops and nearby trees. A gray sofa and neutral-toned furnishings fill the space, including a black oval coffee table and wicker pouf. A round mirror and two white lamps contribute to the room’s balanced, minimal feel.
Dining Area
Glass doors in this dining space open directly to a small outdoor stair landing. A glass-top table with deep blue chairs anchors the room under a chandelier of clear pendant lights. Abstract blue artwork covers the far wall, contrasting with the soft neutral palette around it.
Kitchen
White cabinetry and a central island define this open-concept kitchen with stainless steel appliances. Recessed lighting and pendant fixtures hang above, while natural light pours in through multiple windows. Open shelving and glass-front cabinets provide a blend of display and storage solutions.
Bedroom
Sliding doors lead from this sleeping area into an adjacent office space, visible just past the bed. A circular mirror, potted plant, and mix of throw pillows create a cozy but uncluttered scene. The window provides outdoor views while keeping the room bright.
Deck
Wooden stairs lead to a raised deck with dark wicker seating arranged for conversation. Railings line the perimeter, and lush green trees fill the background. A blue side table adds a pop of color between the cushioned chairs and loveseat.
Source: Renee M Gonsalves, Sam Buckwalter @ Compass via Coldwell Banker Realty
4. Classic 1920 Forest Hill Home
Set on a quiet block in Forest Hill, this 1920 home spans 2,622 square feet with four bedrooms and three bathrooms. Original details include a wood-burning fireplace, beamed ceilings, and built-ins, with a layout featuring formal living and dining rooms, a walk-out garden, and rooftop deck. Offered for the first time in nearly 80 years, it’s close to West Portal, Muni, and the Maybeck Clubhouse.
Where is the Forest Hill Neighborhood?
Forest Hill is a residential neighborhood in San Francisco, California, located west of Twin Peaks and south of the Inner Sunset. It is known for its quiet streets, single-family homes, and the private Forest Hill Association. The area features the historic Forest Hill Station, designed by architect Bernard Maybeck, and access to the West Portal commercial district. Forest Hill is one of the city’s original residence parks, emphasizing planned landscaping and architecture.
Living Room
Three large windows wrap around the corner of this living room, bringing in natural light and neighborhood views. A gray sofa, green armchairs, and neutral accents are arranged around a circular wood coffee table. Houseplants, a floor lamp, and framed art decorate the space with minimal visual clutter.
Dining Room
A rectangular dining table with six rounded white chairs sits in the center of this dining room. A circular mirror and simple pendant light fixture contribute to the modern decor. A bar cart and framed landscape photograph are placed near the windows.
Kitchen
Upper and lower white cabinetry with chrome handles surround the kitchen, along with stainless steel appliances and a central island. A double-door fridge, gas range, and dishwasher are integrated into the layout. Light wood floors, recessed lighting, and bar stools complete the setting.
Bedroom
A bed with white linens and multiple pillows faces the window in this bedroom, with a view of nearby trees and fencing. A black and wood nightstand with a round mirror hangs on the wall opposite. A small desk setup is visible through the open doorway into the adjacent room.
Deck
An outdoor deck includes four cushioned armchairs and a small round table set on wooden plank flooring. Black metal railings enclose the area, and stairs connect to another level of the home. Greenery from surrounding trees adds privacy and shade.
Source: Paul Barbagelata @ Barbco via Coldwell Banker Realty
5. Panoramic City and Bay Views
Built in 1904, this 3,590 square foot Edwardian home is located on a quiet corner in San Francisco’s Noe Valley neighborhood and offers five bedrooms and five bathrooms across four levels. Designed for both comfort and entertaining, the home features panoramic city and Bay views, multiple outdoor terraces, a private backyard with hot tub, and a detached studio.
Listed at $3,995,000, additional highlights include a chef’s kitchen with Thermador and Sub-Zero appliances, two primary suites, EV-equipped garage, and close proximity to Noe Valley’s shops, parks, and transit.
Where is the Noe Valley Neighborhood?
Noe Valley is a residential neighborhood in San Francisco, California, located south of the Castro and west of the Mission District. It is known for its row of Victorian and Edwardian homes, family-friendly atmosphere, and a mild microclimate. The area features a central commercial strip along 24th Street with boutiques, cafes, and a farmers market. Noe Valley is served by Muni transit and offers views from nearby hills like Twin Peaks.
Living Room
Seating arrangement centers around a circular wood coffee table with a bright white brick fireplace on the right. Two armchairs and a rounded sofa are placed on a beige area rug. Light fills the space through tall windows and an open layout.
Dining Area
Round table with six black chairs sits by a large picture window offering a view of rooftops and hills. A trio of modern pendant lights hangs from the coffered ceiling. Through the open doorway, another seating area is visible with a white fireplace and bay windows.
Loft Lounge
Upper floor room features sloped ceilings with four skylights and light carpeting throughout. A sectional sofa, daybed, foosball table, and round wooden coffee table are arranged loosely across the room. Double doors open to a terrace in the back.
Bedroom
Neutral-toned bedroom includes a tall, upholstered bed flanked by wood nightstands with matching lamps. Two small round ottomans sit at the foot of the bed. A secondary sitting area is partially visible through the open doorway.
Backyard Spa
Wood deck space includes a round hot tub embedded in a raised platform near a trellis and garden wall. Two cushioned lounge chairs sit in front of tiered landscaping with dense greenery and potted plants. Natural wood fencing encloses the lush setting.
Source: Greg Fulford @ Sotheby’S International Realty via Coldwell Banker Realty
