A historic San Francisco dwelling that embodies the architectural spirit of the iconic Sea Ranch community has entered the market, sending ripples of interest through the local real estate and design fields. Built in 1961, the personal residence of the respected architect George Homsey, who significantly influenced the design guidelines of Yosemite National Park and the Sea Ranch development, is now listed for sale at $2.45 million, as reported by Robb Report.
Perched atop Liberty Hill, the property offers a vantage point with city views through its oversized windows and was originally acquired for a modest sum of $12,000. However, the house's value is not just in its land but also in its architectural legacy and the narrative it represents. Having housed a venerable architect and his family for over 60 years, the SFGate mentions Homsey’s work on the design of the Sea Ranch began only two years after the construction of his home, which can be regarded as a precursor to the Third Bay Tradition that he would help popularize through his later work.
The Third Bay Tradition-style home features three levels, three bedrooms, and many baths across its nearly 2,250 square feet of preserved living space, revealing Homsey's preference for using natural materials like Douglas fir on the interior. It boasts skylights and Japanese rice-paper lamps, adding an authentic mid-century modern feel to the property. As part of the living history it holds, the primary suite features a built-in sofa and access to a backyard via a footbridge. A green-hued mosaic installation by Mexican-American artist Alfonso Pardiñas adds artistic value to the home, as detailed by the Robb Report.
This slice of architectural history has remained in Homsey's family since its construction, representing a palpable connection to a significant thread in the Bay Area's design heritage, Homsey being a "Giant of California Architecture" and having practiced his craft diligently, first with EHDD Architecture for nearly 50 years and afterward running his practice, he not only designed this home but also partook in its construction alongside friends and colleagues, this hands-on approach brings additional authenticity to the residence, the SFGate notes Homsey built 'the shop' first which served as a base during the building's early stages.
