This storied residence built in 1900 represents a singular opportunity to own a piece of San Francisco’s architectural history or to reimagine it for comfortable contemporary living and for generations to come.

San Francisco may well be the 21st-century’s nexus of technology and progress, but this lovely grande dame enveloped by verdant trees in prestigious Presidio Heights recalls the stylistic heights of the city’s golden age, displaying the elegant flair of a bygone era at every turn. It represents a singular opportunity to own a piece of the Bay Area’s architectural history or, for the most discerning, to reimagine it for comfortable contemporary living and for generations to come.

San Francisco, California| Neill Bassi, Sotheby’s International Realty – San Francisco Brokerage

Built in 1900, the residence has a storied pedigree, designed as it was by noted architect Edward R. Swain, creator of the landmark Whittier Mansion—one of the few homes in the city to survive the 1906 earthquake—and the stalwart McLaren Lodge in Golden Gate Park. On a rare, exceptionally wide lot, it offers 7,350 square feet on four levels and is replete with dramatic period detail: bold wood beams, molding, and paneling; original oak floors; intricate millwork; stained-glass, bay, and arched windows; a grand staircase; seven fireplaces; plentiful built-ins; and vintage fixtures and fittings. Perhaps more enviable are the vistas that include the Golden Gate Bridge and the waters of the bay.

Beyond a grand wood-paneled foyer are a formal living room, a light-filled sunroom, and a dining room with a coffered ceiling, wainscoting, alluring original built-ins, and a view of the bridge and the bay. Airy and bright, the kitchen and breakfast room open to a balustraded terrace that gazes out toward the water. Living and entertaining spaces continue on the ground level, with its generous family room, game room, laundry facilities, powder room, and versatile bonus room.

Three peaceful bedrooms are secluded on the level above the main living spaces. Chief among them is a sunny, serene owner’s suite with herringbone-patterned oak floors, a wood-burning fireplace, south-facing windows, a spacious dressing room, and an en suite bath. Each of the two guest bedrooms here benefits from the charm of a Victorian fireplace. The highlight, however, is the majestic library, nearly circular in shape and distinguished by an ornate ceiling, vintage built-ins, a wet bar, stained-glass detailing, and a wide bay of windows offering a cinematic view of treetops and the Golden Gate Bridge. Tucked among the eaves on the uppermost level are two charming additional bedrooms and a shared full bath. Visitors will appreciate the privacy of the guest suite tucked away on the garden level.

The vibrant multilevel garden includes peaceful terraces and—between the boughs of mature flowering trees and stately pines—enjoys glimpses of the bay. Steps from the Presidio and numerous shops and restaurants, this is an oasis of enduring natural beauty in the midst of the thriving activity of one of the most desirable, architecturally distinctive cities in the world.

Discover luxury homes for sale and rent around the world on sothebysrealty.com