St Francis Wood has been known as one of San Francisco’s finest neighborhoods for more than 100 years. Early visitors were impressed with the graceful streets, parks and landscaping designed by the renowned Olmsted Brothers and the classically-inspired public monuments designed by the prominent architect John Galen Howard of the University of California. They also noted the genius of the design restrictions to ensure harmonious and beautiful houses, and the self-governing homes association to maintain the ideals of the tract.
Today’s observers remark on the verdant planting “almost too good to be true”, and a lushness and continuity of landscaping” that distinguishes it from other residential areas in San Francisco. The houses reflect many period revival styles and the talent of dozens of architects, yet the effect is homogeneity of scale, color and style.
St. Francis Wood reflects traditional architecture. The diverse styles of the 1920’s and 1930’s work together harmoniously because they reflect the classical principles of space, structure, elements, composition, proportion, ornament, and character. Architects used the latest construction methods and material of their time but they also used natural materials, such as slate and clay tiles, metalwork, and wood carvings, coupled with high standards of detailing and craftsmanship.
Excerpt from San Francisco’s St. Francis Wood, published in 2012 by Outside Lands Media, Author, Richard Brandi.
