1901 Jackson Street

I had every intention to feature a more affordable property today, but after stumbling across unit #1 (of 2) in le "Chateau Bleu," I just couldn't resist. Built at the turn of the century by the Rothschilds and re-done in 2001, le "Chateau Bleu" has obviously been built with the high-end clientele in mind, however, I personally think it lacks cohesiveness design-wise. It seems as if the owner had differing tastes depending on each-and-every room of the two-unit property. For instance: a few rooms have beautiful tin or box-beam ceilings and stunning chandeliers, and then adjacent rooms have contemporary inlaid lighting. And don't get me wrong, I am not the purist type that believes that you absolutely cannot mis-match different interior styles, my problem with 1901 Jackson is that it lacks a cohesive vision - it's as if the owner wanted all of these amenities and features, but didn't want to put too much effort into "making it work" interior design-wise. Mr./Ms. 1901 Jackson should take a lesson or two on interior design from the lovely PMB estate (previous property of the day).

Here are the facts:
LOCATION: Pacific Heights
PRICE: $3,790,000
BORN: 1900 (although completely re-born: 2001)
- $711 / sqft
- 5 beds / 4.5 baths
- 5,333 sqft
- Seems as if the listing agent couldn't place a finger on how exactly to categorize this property either. It is described on the listing agent's page as, "colonial, contemporary, custom" hmmm..
- Elevator, garage with 4 enclosed spaces, top of the line kitchen and electronics throughout, small garden area, turn of century decorative opulence (original?), and snooty touches such as a "Car Here" alert system.







Listing

Movoto

Cubist Victorian?

LOCATION: Western Addition
BORN: 1890's
The title may seem like an oxymoron, however, this house does in fact exist - and more than that - I happen to find it adorable! The most interesting aspect of the house is the contrast between the exterior and interior. Its Victorian facade is only a costume over its cubist innards. The restoration and remodel (which cost approx $750,000) resulted in a traditionally looking Victorian (exterior-wise) with a stained wood and glass core.

Although this property is not currently on the market, I think the quality of the renovation and the uniqueness of the design would be foolish pass up. One of the main features of the house is its (double-story) open air atrium that reminds me of those Japanese-esq meditation rooms (complete with bamboo). Besides "just" remodeling the Douglas's (owners/renovators) also added on to the 1,600 sqft property (now 3,600 sqft). Owners say that one of the main reasons why they remodeled was to escape from the small dark rooms often found in Victorians. I have to say that the interior is not what I would traditionally refer to as "my style," but this house is so unique-yet-livable I simply cannot resist my positive feelings

Focal Point:

Mahogany Kitchen (looks out on garden):

Skylit Bathroom:

Open-sky-atrium:

(I wish there were more pics: since it's not on the market, I guess they didn't feel the need to photograph every nook and cranny - I would love to see the bedroom design though)

SF Gate Article