Video House Tour: San Francisco's original Painted Lady is for sale, asking $5.75 million
10 March 2022
Steiner Street's seven Painted Ladies are known the world over for their signature Queen Anne Victorian architectural style—steep roofs, ornamented gables, bay windows, an abundance of pattern, and decorative spindlework. But the home at the corner of Grove Street stands apart from the rest: Not only is she the eldest of the seven sisters, she was also home to the Ladies' original builder, Matthew Kavanaugh.
Built in 1892, all four levels of the historic six-bedroom home underwent an extensive, fully permitted remodel in 2015. But before you get all verklempt, rest assured this beauty retains many of her exquisite 19th century features.
A colorful leaded glass exterior door marks entry to a vestibule designed for ducking out of the weather. To enter the home itself, you'll pass through an additional pair of heavily carved wood doors into a small parlor that will carry you easily into the formal living room and dining room. Original details here include gas-lit glass chandeliers, a marble gas-burning fireplace, and elaborate crown moldings that have been beautifully restored.
Also lovingly refreshed is the intricate wainscoting in the hallway that leads from the foyer to the rear of the home, which has been reconfigured to accommodate an open kitchen—with an oversized island, dual sinks, and a glass wall that opens to the patio—plus an adjacent family room.
The private quarters are made up of large bedrooms each with sizable closets and remodeled bathrooms. The primary suite is an ode to tranquility, with a spa-like bathroom that includes a soaking tub and steam shower, and a custom walk-in closet. The top floor has been updated to take the form of a media area and home office endowed with abundant storage and its own full bathroom.
The home also has a separate legal unit downstairs, accessible from the main level or from the garden in the back of the home. Ideal for guests, a home office or even an Airbnb rental, the one-bedroom space is equipped has an open living and dining area, full bathroom, and kitchenette. There’s even a view.
Additional amenities in the main residence include a full Sunrun solar system, Tesla battery, garage for one car, and an additional space for storage or workshop.
Bedrooms: 6
Bathrooms: 5
Size: 4,831 sq. ft.
Asking price: $5,750,000
// 722 Steiner St. (Hayes Valley); for more information, visit 722steinerst.com.