The Most Romantic Shingled Cottage In Presidio Heights, $6M

by Philip Ferrato

It’s not everyday you get an exquisite, perfectly renovated cottage with a conservatory overlooking a lush, mature garden in what is arguably San Francisco’s best neighborhood, Presidio Heights. But here it is, on the edge of a former military base (dating back to when California was Spanish) that is now one of the most extraordinary urban spaces and national parks, The Presidio.

Little is known about the architect, William A. Knowles, or his brief career (he died at age 42 in 1916) but he was responsible for a number of handsome Shingle Style houses here and in the East Bay. It’s easy to see him as deeply influenced by Bernard Maybeck and the Newsom brothers, easily moving between a picturesque Shingle Style and Beaux Arts classicism. The steep, brick paved street is a prime ensemble of the eclectic, Pre-WWI Edwardian traditions of San Francisco– brown shingles and historical revival houses, with a peak-roofed Maybeck next door and a pair of Knowles-designed homes across the street directly on the Presidio Wall.

Inside, it’s equally picturesque and “artistic” in the best Edwardian sense, with a soaring living room and lovely Arts+Crafts details. The house underwent a complete but sensitive renovation in the mid-aughts and is ready for its next century.

The second level is devoted to the two-bath primary bedroom suite, and includes this vaulted dressing room lined with mirrored custom closets.

Beyond the kitchen, the conservatory/family room is a unique oasis leading to the multi-level garden.

More: Go to the listing for additional details and images plus a link to a video and floor plans; this exceptional property is open Sunday, May 8 from 1:00pm to 4:00pm. Represented by San Francisco luxury property veteran Janet Feinberg Schindler.