If you’ve followed our coverage of noteworthy San Francisco real estate over the years, then you know we have a soft spot for historically significant properties. You may recall our features on 809 Scott Street, 722 Steiner Street, 850 Steiner Street and a certain fixer on world-famous Postcard Row. And it is no coincidence that all those homes are located in the landmark Alamo Square neighborhood — it boasts the highest concentration of distinguished 19th century residences anywhere in the city.
When such remarkable homes are listed for sale, we are here for it. Now, fresh on the market for the first time in decades: 814 Grove Street
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Columns. Corbels. Cornices. Oh my! Dating from a time when the neighborhood was a burgeoning enclave for the upwardly mobile, this home with its impressive decoration was without doubt a reflection of its first owner’s fortune. While properties of this vintage are by no means uncommon in San Francisco, ones with its original architectural detailing preserved entirely as this are rare indeed. Today, these character-defining features known to exist on structures contributing to the Historic District are protected pursuant to Article 10 of the City Planning Code.
Pedimented doorways, chunky moulding, ceiling medallions and marble fireplaces all have survived inside. Adorning the foyer, wallpaper and broadloom carpeting appear to be original as well. A grand triple parlor sets the stage for formal entertaining on the home’s main floor, and those walls must have many stories to tell — perhaps involving drag queens performing The Golden Girls. It’s plausible that the next owner will modify the layout to achieve a more contemporary flow, but with any luck the lion’s share of historical elements will see another 100 years.
Ascending a skylit primary staircase, the home’s upper floor is configured with five bedrooms and two baths that must have been quite luxurious back in the day. With a little imagination, it’s easy to see the potential. Losing one bedroom to gain a dreamy primary suite would be a value-add with minimal impact on design integrity. An elevated concept may include, perhaps, adding stairs to a new rooftop terrace with an absolutely breathtaking skyline view. Regardless, there is already plenty of outdoor space to enjoy on the oversized lot measuring nearly 3,800 square feet.
Building permit records reveal that an in-law apartment was conceived for the ground floor in the early 2000s. While no permit was issued, a 1-bed/1-bath unit was conditioned nonetheless and is currently rented for $2,340 per month according to the MLS listing. Having access both independently from the street and from within the main home opens up possibilities for future use of the space. All things considered, however, keeping that passive income available may be the best one.
From foundation retrofitting to updated plumbing and electrical systems to the kitchen and baths, the scope of work — and budget — required to give this lady the glow up she deserves is not for the faint of heart. But, for an end-user who appreciates history, it is an uncommon opportunity to create a spectacular showpiece. Contact me today to arrange a private showing.
