Une Architecture Sobre, Une Sophistication Sans Effort

Some homes are built on a hillside. Others are thoughtfully positioned to capture something truly extraordinary.

Discreetly nestled in the hills of coveted Old Town Sausalito, this meticulously updated and maintained mid-century contemporary residence was designed by architect Charles Finney for his own family in the early 1960s. Its remarkable placement was no accident. Finney deliberately chose this elevated setting to embrace an extraordinary, nearly 180-degree panorama of San Francisco’s iconic skyline and the shimmering Bay, creating a rare and intimate connection to one of the world’s most beautiful cityscapes.

Rather than compromising the home’s placement for conventional street-level access, the architect embraced the hillside’s exceptional vantage point. Approached by a hillside stairway, the approximately 2,100-square-foot residence rewards the ascent with a sense of peaceful retreat, privacy enhanced by established trees, and breathtaking views from nearly every room. Yet this hillside haven remains within walking distance of Old Town’s beloved corner store and neighborhood amenities.

Understated yet undeniably chic, the home’s timeless architectural simplicity is complemented by a sophisticated neutral palette, artful lighting, and light-filled, open-concept interiors of exceptional scale. Soaring vaulted beamed ceilings and expansive bay windows create a dramatic sense of volume in the living room, where a raised-hearth stone fireplace provides a striking focal point. Sculptural pendant lighting lends an artistic elegance to the dining room, distinguished by original Edith Heath tile floors. The adjoining open kitchen, appointed with Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, is equally suited to intimate gatherings and gracious entertaining. Thoughtfully integrated art display spaces and a study with custom built-ins further express the home’s refined simplicity and attention to detail.

Three lower-level bedrooms include a fire-lit primary suite with captivating Bay views, a private view deck, and an en-suite bath featuring a soaking tub, separate shower, and custom dual-sink bamboo vanity.

Seamlessly connecting indoors and out, folding glass doors open to a spacious, level patio ideal for alfresco dining and entertaining. Multiple view decks and terraces embrace the spectacular panorama, while an upper brick-paved seating area, raised garden beds, and oak-studded hillside grounds create an enchanting natural sanctuary.

A rare offering where architectural restraint, effortless sophistication, and inspired siting come together in extraordinary harmony. The elevation was not a compromise. It was the vision.