Perched on Telegraph Hill near North Beach on a serene cul-de-sac, this four-bedroom, William Wurster-designed home possesses astonishing, unobstructed views of the San Francisco Bay framed by impeccably detailed interiors, recently restored by Mid-century architecture experts, BoydDesign.
Built in 1940 as the Helen Rich House, 173 Chestnut is among the finest examples of Wurster’s discreetly luxurious and deceptively simple houses. Although originally constructed as a 2-unit building, the home’s layout is for a variety of lifestyles and elegant entertaining. All levels are joined by a sweeping staircase culminating on the top floor beneath an oculus.
An Overview:
- Entry Level: Private entrance and garage parking for two cars.
- Studio Level: The garden level, currently styled as a guest suite and office, fits seamlessly into the living floors above while retaining a measure of privacy. On this level are kitchen and bath, both impeccably restored, with painted cabinets and teak countertops, and a lush, bamboo-walled garden attributed to Thomas Church.
- Bedroom Level: The spacious master bedroom suite features a fireplace and views of San Francisco Bay. Sharing this level are two guest bedrooms and a shared bath, all with access to the home's garden.
- Entertaining Level: The spectacular living/dining room is an open, voluminous space with panoramic views of the Bay. A wall of windows opens to a view deck spanning the entire north side, and glass doors to the south open to a sheltered dining terrace overlooking the garden. The window-lined kitchen (combining the original kitchen and butler’s pantry) was designed by BoydDesign in the spirit of the house yet reflecting today’s much more casual lifestyle of open floor plans.
One of California’s most important architects, William Wurster’s influences remain deeply imbedded in the state’s design psyche. From his exquisitely crafted and deceptively modest wood structures like the Helen Rich House, to groundbreaking adaptive reuse projects like Ghirardelli Plaza, his impact is inescapable.
Known as a “steward” of modern architecture, BoydDesign’s just-completed restoration has prepared 173 Chestnut for the next Century.
Please take the 3D Virtual Reality Tour for first showings. Contact our team for other virtual showing options.
