APRIL 2022
Sumptuous Mediterranean-inspired villa with spectacular views of San Francisco awaits
STEVE GALLAGHER
SPONSORED BY:
CONTACT:
LEARN MORE
Located in Clarendon Heights, this almost 6,000-square-foot, five-bedroom, five-and-a-half-bathroom home sits on a 13,000 square-foot lot with views to the north and east from the very heart of the city. The entry, with its tile floors, Venetian plaster walls, and arched ceiling, sets the tone for the sumptuous home.
At one end is a tiled fountain with a mural that was designed and painted by Norman Rizzi, an artist who had been head of the scene painting department at the San Francisco Opera. It depicts various Italian scenes and has the home itself incorporated into it. Original silk Fortuny shades frame the light, and the massive doors and windows are framed in bronze.
The home, built in 1932, was originally designed by architect, George DeColmesnil, who designed the Corinthian Yacht Club Clubhouse in San Francisco. The front entry was redesigned in 1935 by architect Clarence A. Tantau. It was originally built for the daughter of a Basque sheepherder in the Central Valley after he struck oil in the Avenal/Felix field near Kettleman City.
Original tile steps lead you to the central hub of the home, which gives access to the dramatic dining room, the courtyard garden, the upper bedroom levels, or to the amazing living room. The main public room floors are of tile that was set by workers brought from Italy
during the Depression.
The living room has vaulted beam ceilings that show the true craftsmanship of this home. To one side is an imposing and stunning fireplace flanked by 16th century andirons and a wrought iron fire screen. A huge wrought iron chandelier dominates the room. At one end, huge windows frame an iconic view of San Francisco.
The dining room has a plaster relief ceiling that has been painted with a mural depicting stories of the owner’s travels intertwined with legends of far off places. The chandelier and sconces are of Murano blown glass from Italy.
Steve Gallagher
Coldwell Banker Realty
415.250.3779
DRE# 01193002
Beyond the dining room is a kitchen that can handle a banquet, a chef’s delight. Gorgeous cherry cabinets line the walls; the counters are Carrera marble. There is a commercial Wolf cooktop, Subzero refrigerator and freezer, three wall ovens, and a huge island that will accommodate any great chef.
A handsome metal and brass hand rails set the mood for the upper level bedroom areas. The primary suite is surrounded by windows enjoying the views and is anchored by a stunning European ornate gas fireplace. The en-suite bath has been gently remodeled to accommodate a more contemporary lifestyle but still retains its dramatic red, black, and gold tile work from the ‘30s.
1560 Van Ness Ave.
San Francisco, CA 94109
The second bedroom has been beautifully fitted to be an exquisite library and TV room with surround sound. It features stained-glass windows, a chandelier crafted in Egypt, built-in book cases, and shelving to display the owner’s collection of pottery. The room has its own en-suite bath that also features original tile work.
Two additional bedrooms are on the level above this. One has been fitted with wrap around desks and has large picture windows facing downtown SF and the bay. The other spacious bedroom has an en-suite bath that has a marble sink, and is tiled in rich tones reflective of the stonework found in the Mediterranean.
Off the kitchen is a well fitted laundry room, which leads to the original maid’s quarters for the property. It is a private sanctuary with its own entrance.
The home wraps around a beautiful courtyard that has a fountain in the center. The area is beautifully planted and cared for and makes a wonderful backdrop and vista from many rooms of the home. Beyond this area an arched gateway takes you to the south west corner of the expansive lot where you will find more plantings, a large patio and even larger jetted swim spa. Perched on the upper level of the garden you can enjoy views of the City while relaxing or exercising in your spa.
Below the main level of the home is even more amazing space. The lower level is a huge family room space with separate office area, a built-in banquette on one side, and a wall of cabinets surrounding a large flat screen TV. There is a beautifully remodeled full bath with a steam shower and sauna on this level. This room has its own private entrance from the main stairs leading to the front entrance.
This Mediterranean Revival home combines styles reflecting the Italian Renaissance, Beaux Arts, and Venetian Gothic styles that were popular in the early ‘30s. It is dramatic and comfortable at the same time, and was built using a quality of craftsmanship not easily found today. This home with its lush gardens and stunning views is perfect for entertaining or just relaxing at home.