pacific heights penthouse_san francisco

pacific heights penthouse

This project offered a rare and challenging opportunity to reimagine a generous 5,800-square-foot penthouse unit within a prewar building in San Francisco’s Pacific Heights neighborhood. Stripped back to its original concrete structure, the residence revealed a remarkable spatial canvas framed by sweeping city views in every direction.

The layout was entirely reconfigured to deepen its connection to the surrounding views and make more intentional use of the existing windows, which could not be altered within the historically protected building envelope. The resulting design strikes a careful balance between past and present, pairing classical detailing that honors the building’s timeless character with contemporary materials, forms, and craftsmanship.

At the heart of the main living spaces, a dark walnut-clad volume forms a sculptural architectural core, discreetly housing utility and back-of-house functions. Its precisely detailed, modern paneling creates a rich counterpoint to the lighter, more traditional wall paneling and trim that defines the perimeter rooms and walls.

A restrained palette of dark walnut, Armani Grigio marble, and oak chevron flooring establishes a sense of depth, warmth, and dramatic contrast throughout. Overhead, a contemporary interpretation of the traditional coffered ceiling incorporates layered trim details and integrated LED lighting, providing higher ceilings and some drama, as well as more articulation that better defines rooms and program within a much more open overall plan.