Piedmont Seniors Appease Their Decorative Side with a Trip to the San Francisco Decorator Showcase in Pacific Heights
Piedmont seniors who appreciate decorative creativity and unique style were rewarded with a trip to the San Francisco Decorator Showcase in Pacific Heights.
This annual event is the primary fundraiser for University High School’s financial aid program. The school’s mission is to admit qualified students from diverse backgrounds—many of whom would not be able to afford the tuition without substantial financial support. Currently, 23% of students at UHS rely on financial aid. The school’s foundation anticipates raising $1 million from this year’s fundraiser. Tickets for the Decorator Showcase are available through May 26.
During the visit, attendees explored a four-story mansion— plus rooftop deck with seating area and hot tub. Originally built in 1902 as an investment property for a wealthy widow, the home began as three Tudor Revival-style flats. It was transformed into a classically inspired single-family mansion in 2009 by architect Louis Felthouse.
Designed by the eccentric Scottish-born architect Thomas Paterson Ross (1873–1957) for Carrie Gummer, the building on Pacific Avenue is one of many multi-family residences Ross designed in San Francisco. His family immigrated to the United States in the mid-1880s, and by 1890 he was working for local architect John Gash.
In 2009, architect Louis Felthouse and designer Matthew MacCaul Turner led a complete transformation of the property. The new façade, clad in imported French limestone, features classical detailing including quoining and a clean roof line cornice. Inside, the marble and limestone-floored entry hall reflects the exterior’s classical style. Several rooms retain dark wood paneling as a nod to the former Tudor interior. However, all interior elements—including carved fireplaces and a dramatic staircase—date to the 2009 renovation. The rooftop terrace completes the home’s elegant new design.
While there are many stairs spanning the four floors and rooftop, a small elevator is available for those who prefer not to climb. The Showcase property is located on the same block as other historic mansions designed by Albert Farr and Julia Morgan. Just down the street is the Hotel Drisco, originally built in 1907 as a 20-unit apartment building and converted into a hotel in the 1940s.
After completing the self guided tour, the Piedmont seniors headed to Treasure Island for lunch at Mersea. Located on the Great Lawn and rooted in the island’s naval history, Mersea is a container-style restaurant and bar created by executive chef and restaurateur Parke Ulrich. Mersea—which means “island oasis” in Old English—features a relaxed, scenic atmosphere and a menu that includes Fish & Chips, Fish Tacos, Parke’s Fish Chowder, and for dessert, a decadent chocolate brownie large enough to share.