Acquired in 2022, a historic penthouse in San Francisco’s Mission District, dating back to 1929, presented a unique narrative. Local lore, passed down through nearly a century, suggests that during its construction, the fervent pace of Bay Area development made it impossible to find a traditional crown molder. Consequently, a skilled cake decorator was enlisted, translating their artistry with icing to craft the intricate trim and molding that adorns the Edwardian-style interiors.
Architectural Heritage & Design Vision
The previous owners, as well as contractors, highlighted the rarity and irreplaceable nature of such original architectural elements. “If you don’t have stuff like this already in your house, you’re not going to get anything like it. It’s too cost-prohibitive these days,” contractors advised the new owners, Lauren Smiley and Harshal Ingole. They sought a residence steeped in history and character, finding precisely that in this unique abode, of which they are only the third owners.
Preservation of Period Details
The 2,178-square-foot residence boasts a wealth of original features, including elegant arched windows and doorways, a dramatic barrel-vaulted living room ceiling, exquisite inlaid wood flooring, stately Italian-style columns, and sculptural trim work. These elements speak to the craftsmanship of a bygone era.
Rejuvenation Hollywood Fitter Winged Chain Pendant
Rejuvenation
Eaton Haddon Hall Silverplate Candelabra
Etsy
A Palette of Bold Expression
While the architectural framework was impeccable, the residence’s previously all-white palette was perceived as lacking personality. Smiley, drawn to vibrant interiors, declared, “If it’s a colorful room, I like it.” This sentiment set the stage for a transformative design approach.
Los Angeles-based designer Leah Ring of Another Human, known for her vibrant aesthetic, was engaged for the project. Despite a full schedule, the homeowners were willing to wait, recognizing the rare opportunity to work with such a historically significant property. Ring embraced the challenge, devising a sophisticated palette that masterfully juxtaposes bold hues like magenta and Tiffany blue with softer tones of apricot and chartreuse. “We’ve never rendered more color options for a client before,” Ring remarked.
Sundara Sutton Mirror
Trit
Vintage Egyptian Revival Bamboo & Rattan Bench
Etsy
A Canvas of Personal Narratives
The living room serves as a striking introduction, featuring a custom ceiling mural by artist Nicole Hayden. This artwork is a deeply personal composition, incorporating metallic gold concentric rings—a nod to the book cover of Vauhini Vara’s “The Immortal King Rao.” It also includes Zodiac symbols from Grand Central Station, inspired by Ingole’s admiration for the celestial motifs, and stylized faces reminiscent of Jean Cocteau’s work. Musical notes celebrate Smiley’s passion for music, while a constellation of Ganesh’s face pays homage to Ingole’s Indian heritage. The walls are painted in Benjamin Moore’s Lido Green, creating a vibrant backdrop for this artistic tapestry.
The color journey progresses thoughtfully, with a sea-foam green defining the living room, transitioning to a delicate peach hue in the dining area. The breakfast nook and kitchen feature deeper, moodier tones, culminating in a guest bathroom adorned with vibrant magenta walls. Ring noted the homeowners’ adventurous spirit: “Every time I thought there’s no way they’ll go for this, they’d say, ‘Let’s go brighter.’”
Century Omni Sideboard
Perigold
Tulsi Home Jackson Burl Bed
One Kings Lane
Throughout the residence, carefully selected antique pieces, such as a midcentury-modern cabinet in the office and Art Deco-inspired Murano glass sconces in the primary bedroom, complement the home’s historical character and the owners’ eclectic tastes.
Ring summarized the design philosophy: “The project called for a lot of vintage to reflect the time period of the home and also the style of its owners. This is how the apartment should look: colorful, rich, and collected.” The ultimate compliment came from Smiley, who texted Ring upon completion: “Looking around feels like looking in a mirror.”
Lulu and Georgia Barre Round Dining Table
Lulu and Georgia
Anglo-Indian Carved Hardwood Bench
1stDibs
Business Style Takeaway: This residence exemplifies how preserving historical architectural integrity while injecting a bold, personalized color palette can create an environment that is both sophisticated and deeply expressive, enhancing the owner’s lifestyle and personal brand through dynamic, artful living.
Details can be found on the website : www.architecturaldigest.com