Tucked amid the famous hilly terrain of San Francisco, 3699 Washington stands as more than just a home—it’s a living, breathing monument to the city’s rich architectural history. Owned by venture capitalist Richard Kramlich, who is a major name in Silicon Valley and was the first outside equity investor in Apple, and his wife, Pamela, the graceful mansion has not been seen on the market in 40 years. It’s now asking $19.5 million, and is the highest priced home in Presidio Heights.
Built in 1927, the stately abode was designed by acclaimed California architect Albert Farr. While he crafted nine homes in San Fran, four of which fall on ‘Billionaire’s Row,’ he has four other creations that are listed on the National Registry of Historic Places: Aetna Springs Resort in Napa County, Benbow Inn in Humboldt County, Wolf House on the Jack London Ranch in Sonoma County, Phillipshurst-Riverwood in Santa Cruz County.
The Kramlich’s Farr-designed residence was built for Leland Rosener, who was connected to the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge. A fun fact of this home is that it is cited perfectly to capture views of the Bridge, but it was built before the bridge was finished.
“Rumored to be an active participant in the creation of the home, [Leland] Rosener is credited with designing a pneumatic vacuum system for the home which still exists in the residence, and pneumatic garage doors,” shares listing agent Neal Ward. “It is said to have a perch in one of the windows of the home where he could observe the building of the Golden Gate through his telescope.”
The nearly 10,000-square-foot manse was also designed for entertaining, and updated in the last 40 years with contemporary design elements and technologies to support luxurious modern living. It has a “Social Hall” with tall ceilings and a stage, ideal for all sorts of parties and events. Other highlights of the home include the custom state-of the-art kitchen, outfitted in new appliances and beautiful wood cabinets, as well as the adjacent dining room that can seat up to 12 people. The upper level bedrooms are a serene repose from the rest of the home, as are the home’s multi-level terraces and sparkling pool outside.
Neal Ward of Compass holds the listing of this San Francisco treasure.