The Pre-War Condo | On the Boards

Perched atop a 1926 Samuel Lightner Hyman–designed building, this 5,000-square-foot full-floor penthouse is one of only two of its kind in San Francisco. FORMA partnered with architect Sean Bailey and interior designer Sindhu Peruri to completely reimagine the space for modern living. The unit was stripped to the studs and rebuilt with new systems throughout—all while preserving its historic Palladian windows, frieze details, and panoramic views of the Bay, from the Golden Gate to downtown. With no functional elevator access, over 350 tons of material were craned in and out through a 5’ x 3.5’ window. The result is a seamless fusion of historical elegance and custom contemporary craftsmanship.

Project Highlights:

• Originally built in 1926 by architect Samuel Lightner Hyman.
• One of only two full-floor penthouses in San Francisco.
• Fully gutted and rebuilt, including raising the ceiling from 9 to 10 feet by expanding into the attic.
• New mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems installed throughout.
• Materials and debris—over 350 tons—craned in/out through a 5′ x 3.5′ window opening.
• Custom millwork, applied moldings, and a self-performed multi-step soffit detail carried throughout.
• Chevron-pattern hardwood flooring and cove-integrated LED lighting across nine distinct areas.

View the full walk-through here.