Architectural luminary John Maniscalco has distinguished himself across the Bay Area with his use of design to emphasize light and space, creating a framework for his interiors to interact harmoniously with the spectacular surroundings. Quiet, intuitive, and serene, his spaces encourage residents and guests alike to adopt a novel perspective.

These singular principles hold sway in this ±3,400-square-foot residence in Dolores Heights, which Maniscalco designed in the early stages of his residential practice. Its significance was recognized by its inclusion in the “Architecture of Consequence”–themed AIA festival in San Francisco in 2011.

On one of San Francisco’s quintessential sloping streets, the home takes advantage of the dramatic topography, its four levels cascading along with the hillside, allowing each to benefit from unfolding views and glorious natural light. Maniscalco’s aesthetic is on clear display, with soaring ceilings contributing to a lofty ambience, windows framing unique views, and architectural lines directing the eye to new spaces as they unfurl. A perfect balance of richly hued wood, flinty metals, and dreamily transparent glass creates an organic minimalist palette. Built-in storage is abundant, streamlined, and thoughtfully positioned. Carefully chosen fixtures and fittings are simultaneously modern and timeless.


At the street level is a desirable two-car garage with side-by-side parking and ample storage as well as a driveway with room for additional vehicles. On the entry level, just above the garage, is a versatile suite that can be cleverly hidden behind pocket doors and can easily serve as a guest suite, a family or media room, an art or yoga studio, or a secluded professional space. Stairs ascend to a level designed for festive entertaining and relaxed day-to-day living: a sunken living room wrapped in windows and a dining room sharing a double-sided gas fireplace; a chef’s kitchen with rift-cut wood cabinets, Caesarstone counters, an island with counter seating, and a suite of Viking appliances, including dual ovens; and a comfortable gathering area with built-in seating and a discreetly concealed entertainment center. Here, a wall of glass disappears, creating a seamless flow between indoors and out and offering effortless access to an idyllic garden with terrace spaces and an enchanting variety of mature flora, including towering palms. A remotely controlled mechanical sun awning provides welcome shade.

Atop a skylit floating stairway, the level above features three bedrooms, each enjoying access to a balcony and a view. The owner’s suite includes a generous walk-in closet; a bath detailed in limestone, marble, and wood that recalls the most serene of spas; and a bedroom with a corner of windows affording a cinematic outlook. On the uppermost level, a retractable skylight gives way to an enviable roof deck with a wet bar, refrigerator, landscaping, heat lamps, heated seats, and a retractable sun awning. The panorama here is breathtaking day or night, when the city’s sparkling skyline comes to dazzling life.