Residence on Russian Hill

This extensive reconstruction and expansion of one of the oldest houses on Russian Hill consists of two significant compositional devices: a picturesque tower located asymmetrically at the northwest corner, where it forms a dramatic entry; and a straight run of stairs that cuts across the building to lead visitors to the principal living rooms located on the top floor, affording spectacular views of the San Francisco Bay Area. Although the austere shingled idiom of the original house is retained in this reconstruction, the new tower and the detailing of the entrance porch begin to suggest the intricate play of planes and volumes that occurs on the interior.

RAMSA Partner Robert A.M. Stern led the design.