District 5 (Central District) Modern + Mid-Century Modern Homes

If you are looking for a mid-century modern or contemporary home, San Francisco's District 5 is a great place to start your search. At first glance, the Central District may appear to be full of Victorian houses, Edwardian flats, and charming cottages. Look again, however, and you’ll find enough mid-century and contemporary gems to please even the most discriminating modernist palate.  

San Francisco's Twin Peaks or Clarendon Heights neighborhoods might be a good place to begin your search if mid-century design is on your radar. Both neighborhoods were developed after World War II, and include homes designed by John Funk, Anshen & Allen, Charles Warren Callister, and Malone & Hooper. Although many of the homes have been remodeled, it is still possible to find a mid-century treasure in its original condition.

Another good bet for interesting architecture is Ashbury Heights / Parnassus, where you’ll find an eclectic mix of traditional and modern homes. Richard Neutra and Bernard Maybeck are represented in the architecture of Parnassus Heights, as are Louis Christian Mullgardt and Ira Kurlander, who designed a dramatic two-story Streamline Moderne dwelling that can be found on Shrader Street.

For those looking for something a little more contemporary, or traditional with a contemporary twist, the Noe Valley and Duboce Triangle neighborhoods provide for some interesting house hunting. An ultra-modern, glass, steel, and concrete home designed by Phil Mathews is quite a showplace, as are contemporary homes designed by well-respected architects Chris McMahon and Levy Art + Architecture.

Even some of those well-maintained Victorians and dignified Edwardians in the Noe Valley and Duboce Triangle just might hold a few surprises designed to delight the modern soul. Renovated “traditional” style homes are becoming increasingly popular and boast sleek modern interiors. Craig Steely, Chris McMahon, and Levy Art + Architecture have all designed some sophisticated, up-to-date interiors, introducing modern aesthetics to traditional homes.

In San Francisco’s District 5 you’ll find a true melting pot of cultures, lifestyles, and architecture. Here you will find a lot of character and a rich variety of architectural style, offering something for every sensibility, and plenty of opportunity to express your modernist spirit.

Contact San Francisco Modern, San Francisco Architectural Realtors, for assistance buying a modernist home in San Francisco District 5.