Visible from San Francisco Bay, you’ll recognize this historic home for sale. Take a look
San Francisco Bay boaters and sailors cruising by the islands of Belvedere and Tiburon will likely recognize a 1902 shingle home with a crow’s nest that has hit the market for $8.7 million.
Called the Peterson House, the 6,000-square-foot residence perched on a steep slope of the Marin County island of Belvedere offers panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco Bay, Raccoon Strait, Belvedere Cove and Angel Island.
From the curb or from the water, the historic home’s pyramidal roof, dormers and wide, protective overhangs are immediately recognizable.
“This residence embodies the timeless beauty and distinguished elegance of classic Belvedere homes from the turn of the century,” the official property listing states.
The interior is highlighted by elegant details and modern, open, seamless indoor/outdoor living spaces.
“This home features impeccable millwork through stunning wainscoting panels, intricate crown molding details, arched doorways, and beautiful refinished hardwood floors,” listing agent Shana Rohde-Lynch of Compass said in a statement. “It is an exceptional estate and is a haven for entertainers featuring picturesque grounds, an expansive entertainment terrace, multiple decks, patios, terraced gardens, a spa, a lush lawn, serene water fountains and meticulously manicured landscaping and the roses gracefully climbing the facade.”
Rohde-Lynch has been a longtime admirer of the property.
“When I first entered the foyer I was captivated by the historic details, character, and modernized millwork reminiscent of the turn of the century,” she said. “As a local resident and boater, I have always admired the home’s incredible presence — the iconic curb appeal speaks to the architectural beauty of Belvedere Island and it can be seen from many points on the peninsula and from boaters on the bay.”
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The six-bedroom, seven-bathroom home was designed by architect Clarence Ward and constructed by Neil McLean, who built many of the early homes on the island. Ward incorporated Edwardian details and the unique overhang.
The house, 332 Golden Gate Ave., was constructed for less than $9,780 at the time, according to information provided for a 1986 tour of landmark homes. A carriage house that was part of the property has since been sold separately.
“The garage is a recent addition in a series of alterations for modern convenience which includes combining the kitchen and back porch,” according to the tour information. “The spacious stair landing used as a sitting room has been opened onto a new deck. The living room fireplace brought from New Orleans by the owner suits the superb interior style which has been preserved with many of the original details including the beams and leaded glass.”
Richard Y. Dakin, founder of the Dakin plush toy company, and his wife Susanna Bryant Dakin purchased the home in the 1950s, according to Compass. A Belvedere legend, Susanna helped form Belvedere Tiburon Landmarks Society and was instrumental in the purchase and restoration of Old St Hilary’s church and its adjacent open space. The church can is visible from many rooms in the house.
In the mid-1960s, the Dreyfous family bought the property and owned the home for 35 years. Many people still refer to the residence “the Dreyfous house.”
In 1998, Maureen and Steven Block acquired the estate and took on a major modernization of the turn-of-the-century house, paying attention to preserving its historical character while making it fit for modern families, according to Compass.
Years later, interior designer Ken Fulk and his team were hired to update the interior. His work caught the attention of home and design experts.
“This home seemed like the kind of place a sea captain would have built, and then haunted,” Fulk told California Home+Design magazine in 2010. “Frankly, it’s the kind of place where I would have loved to grow up.”
He’s probably not alone.
“This captivating estate seamlessly integrates exceptional outdoor spaces that accentuate its magical park-like grounds, creating a dream setting for hosting both large and intimate gatherings,” the property listing says.
This story was originally published August 23, 2024 at 12:41 PM.
