In a city where real estate regularly makes headlines, the latest historic home to grace the San Francisco market is the Presidio Heights residence of venture capitalist Richard "Dick" Kramlich and his wife Pamela. The couple, known for their philanthropic endeavors and art collections, have listed their mansion for a cool $19.5 million, as San Francisco Business Times reported. Designed by noted architect Albert Farr in the 1920s, this property at 3699 Washington Street boasts expansive living spaces and historical quirks like a pneumatic vacuum system dating back to its original owner.
With a market that's seen luxury home sales surge this past October, the Kramlich residence stands out as the priciest active listing in its neighborhood. An Italianate mansion, whose origins lay with an engineer linked to the construction of the celebrated Golden Gate Bridge, features a swimming pool, a rarity in the San Francisco residential market. The Kramlich's home settled about 40 years ago, highlights the city's fascination with prestige and heritage, yet offering all the modern amenities expected in a high-end property. Neal Ward notes that the engineer, Leland Rosener, had even installed a perch in the residence to observe the bridge's construction through his telescope, according to the San Francisco Business Times.
The nearly 10,000-square-foot residence is as grand in stature as it is in detail, displaying its architectural heritage proudly with features that include a large stone fireplace, a fountain, and a substantial social hall complete with a stage. The property offers a gym, a children’s study area, and a two-car garage for those inclined to privacy and luxe living. The details of the residence, as described on Neal Ward's listing page, underline the home's rich architectural details and materials that embody the ongoing pride of ownership and the integrity of the construction. "Flagship-level" may not have been a term coined for residences, but this property might just stretch that definition.
The Kramlich's decision to sell emerges amidst a flurry of activity by notable figures in San Francisco's real estate landscape. A property owned by a third-generation family member behind Grocery Outlet was also sold recently. The Kramlich mansion, though, offers potential buyers a glimpse into San Francisco's gilded age, catering to those with a taste for historical charm and modern sophistication. The property listing by Neal Allen Ward promises a "one-of-a-kind" life for the discerning buyer keen on penning its next chapter while basking in the views of the iconic bridge and secluded luxury.
