Located one block off Cortland Avenue in a prime section of Bernal Heights, this early 20th century cottage was ready for a glow-up when it landed on the market in 2022. Uniquely positioned at the rear of an underimproved corner lot, its original three-room layout measured just ±625 square feet and the full basement begged for purpose. The property sold in a short 11 days, and a flip was soon underway.

Twelve months from the start of construction, 400 Gates Street nearly doubled in size to 1,100+ square feet — completely within the envelope. Its living, dining and kitchen spaces were relocated to the newly conditioned ground level; the existing upper floor was reconfigured as well-appointed bedroom suites; and the yard received an entertainment-ready makeover. The result is a “spacious, light-filled, and timeless” home made for California living. It is currently listed for sale at $1,488,000.

Let’s see the before and after…

The entire basement of 400 Gates Street was a mashup of unpermitted spaces before becoming the open-concept living area that exists today. Whatever functionality this ±600 square feet offered, substandard ceiling height and a rough concrete floor left much to be desired. Voila! Contemporary finishes, abundant lighting, and the addition of an inviting fireplace deliver dramatic visual transformation.

Replacing original structural beams with steel, the deletion of support posts affords unobstructed flow between gathering spots. This new main level has gained a staircase joining the home’s two stories, under which there is a thoughtfully placed powder room. A separate laundry closet houses the on-demand water heater that powers a multi-zone hydronic radiant floor system.

Adequate headroom for a modern kitchen was achieved with minor excavation. Designer flair arrives in the form of custom cabinetry, matte black hardware, polished quartz surfaces, and floating shelves with integrated lighting. Premium appliances by Bosch include a six-burner gas range and built-in microwave at the island. Direct access to the courtyard simplifies indoor-outdoor entertaining.

Previously, just inside the second-floor main entrance, a barely-there kitchen made for lackluster first impressions. It’s now part of a serene bedroom suite ideal for primary use or as an independently-accessible retreat for guest. Through sliding doors where a rebuilt deck connects to the yard below, morning sun illuminates the space.

The skylit ensuite bath features a glass-enclosed walk-in shower, floating vanity, and floor-to-ceiling porcelain tile.

A second bedroom of similar size receives easterly exposure as well. The footprint of this room is unchanged however all but its framing is freshly reworked. A double closet is outfitted with custom organization and — throughout the home — upgraded electrical wiring, dual pane windows, wide-plank oak flooring, and crisp millwork create an environment that’s accommodating, comfortable, and stylish.

After allocations to the new interior staircase and second-floor landing, the remainder of a former living room has become another full bath. An enclosed corridor allows passage to the aforementioned bedroom, producing the home’s second suite.

It’s no secret that Bernal Heights has some of city’s best weather, and these grounds are designed to make the most of it. In fact, the slate-paved courtyard alone nearly doubles the home’s entertaining space. There is room to lounge under the sun, dine al fresco, host a barbecue, and install a hot tub. Illuminated steps lead to a parking pad where — at the click of a button — the fence slides open for vehicle entry.

Of course, there is much more to 400 Gates Street than these transformation photos reveal. Have a closer look below.