USA Kitchen Trends US Kitchen Renovation Trends Vol. 30/11 | Page 18

On the rooftops
High above San Francisco, this sleek, minimalist
eyrie captures views in all directions,
thanks to an extensive remodel
Above: Glass screens enclose a
sheltered terrace at the top of this
extensively remodeled city house.
Although this balcony existed
prior to the renovation, Feldman
Architecture added a bright red
shade canopy, seating and planter
boxes. The glass has self-cleaning
properties to ensure the view
remains clear.

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San Francisco is renowned for its tall, slender
houses that sit cheek by jowl on some of the
city’s most prestigious real estate. But at just 21ft
wide, this house was narrower than most.
Architect Jonathan Feldman of Feldman
Architecture says despite its narrow width and
dilapidated state, the property had the potential
to be a spectacular home for the new owners.
“The four-story house was in a great location
and there were views in all directions from
the top level,” says Feldman. “But in its original state, the house was unattractive and dark,
with narrow stairs leading to the living area at

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the top. This floor was compartmentalized with
several small rooms, so there was no view from
front to back. And although the living area had
high ceilings, it was not well suited to modern
living. A small, galley-style kitchen didn’t help.”
Changes were made at every level, both
inside and out. The unarticulated stucco facade
was reclad in gray limestone, and deep metal
frames introduced around the windows and
garage. A bay window that cantilevered out
over the street was replaced with a balcony.
Feldman’s team also made significant
changes to the stairs. The narrow stairway was