Sometimes when remodeling an older home, designers will eliminate the period details in favor of crafting an ultra-modern living space.
Striking a balance between classic and contemporary was a key motivator for Rusty Wadatz, who redesigned 1244 Masonic Ave. in San Francisco during the last 18 months.
“I wanted to combine traditional and modern, and the biggest challenge is not over-designing it,” Wadatz said of the tri-level Victorian just west of Buena Vista Park. “I didn’t want to make it the blingiest home on the block; it’s already a strong street.”
Though the home was taken to the studs and its layout reconfigured, period details such as the bay windows, coved ceiling and elaborate surround for the fireplace in the living room were retained. Meanwhile, the modern kitchen, stylish bathrooms, automated lighting and media capabilities place the home firmly in the 21st century. Originally two separate homes, it’s now a single-family home, offering a guest suite with its own mailing address. The updated Victorian with European flair is available for $3.35 million.
Alternating dark trims with bright walls and shadowy hues with pale tones inside, Wadatz, who operates a design firm bearing his name, aimed to make the interior dynamic yet welcoming.
“Some modern interiors can feel so bare and cold,” Wadatz said.
The dining room, with its navy walls and alabaster-toned trim, demonstrates that harmony. On the other side of the room, the color scheme is swapped, creating visual distinction.
The kitchen, with its Thermador appliances and marble center island with custom cabinetry, is Wadatz’s favorite room of the home. Redesigning the kitchen was challenging, he said, partially due to the space they had to work with. Additionally, he said, integrating classic and modern elements without clashing them is always a test.
“We ended up with a kitchen that would appeal to a buyer of any age,” Wadatz said, “from a Facebook employee to a stay-at-home mother.”
Ann Saks glass tiles, along with custom fixtures and cabinets, decorate the home’s three en-suite bathrooms, two full baths and two half-bathrooms.
The street level of the home offers an au-pair suite with full kitchen and bedroom. It includes its own entrance to the home’s Flora Grubb landscaped garden and can be used as a rental space or guest house.
The living room, with its white oak floors, neighborhood views and elaborate fireplace, will definitely be a focus for listing agent Colleen Cotter of Vanguard Properties when she hosts an open house Sunday.
“It’s a dramatic entry, and the scale (of the house) is spectacular,” Cotter said.
Wadatz’s team “rehabilitated” the hearth, which is adorned with columns and horizontal mirror. Fleurs-de-lis decorate the interior of the fireplace.
The home offers 4,500 square feet of living space and includes a finished garage. It will be open Sunday from 2 to 4 p.m.
