The historic charm of San Francisco's Victorian architecture takes a modern turn at 956 South Van Ness Avenue in the Mission District. Listed at $4,495,000, this single-family home, constructed in 1872 by the noted architect Edward Leodore Mayberry, seamlessly blends its period craftsmanship with contemporary conveniences following an extensive renovation completed in 2017. The renovation preserved the original detailing while incorporating a new foundation, plumbing, and electrical systems, as detailed in the Droubi Team's listing.
Maintaining the integrity of the home's storied past was a priority for the restoration team, led by San Francisco architect Paul Molina. "It’s rare to see a remodel where the period details are preserved—it’s usually easier, and cheaper, to wipe the slate clean,” Lamisse Droubi of Generation Real Estate mentioned, per Mansion Global. Original features like hardwood floors, stair railings, and moldings remain intact, standing in harmony with modern upgrades like radiant floor heating and an Ilve range.
The four-bedroom, five-and-a-half-bathroom home extends across 5,158 square feet of living space and sits on a generously proportioned 34-foot-by-122-foot lot. The interior design incorporates Fornasetti wallpaper and Ann Sacks tile, adding an artsy flair that echoes the creative spirit of the Mission neighborhood. A notable stained-glass window designed by Dan Gamaldi and a mural by local artist Jet Martinez underscore the residence's dedication to its artsy roots. The residence also boasts functional amenities, including an 800-bottle wine cellar and dual laundry rooms.
On the outside, the property features multiple spaces ideal for relaxation and social gatherings, such as a south-facing garden with a hot tub and fire pit, and an expansive front patio perched above a two-car garage. The lower-level space, which includes its full bathroom, could serve as a separate apartment with its own entrance, adding to the home's versatility. "This property is incredibly versatile," Droubi told Mansion Global, acknowledging the potential the Victorian has to accommodate everything from an extended family to tenants.
