Hosono House by Ryan Leidner Architecture – San Francisco’s Contemporary Retreat

A Private Sanctuary in San Francisco’s Hills

Nestled in the hilly Bernal Heights neighborhood, Hosono House is a remarkable example of a modern San Francisco residence that harmoniously blends historic character with contemporary design. The original structure, located at the rear of the property and set back from the street, creates a unique sense of privacy and retreat. This separation from the street not only ensures seclusion but also posed a design challenge for access and circulation, which the architects resolved with an innovative entry sequence.

A bridge spanning the landscaped lower courtyard leads to the new front entrance, creating an elegant transition from the garden to the home. This new approach transforms circulation while maintaining the serene and secluded atmosphere.

Reimagining Spatial Flow and Layout

The project tackled the original awkward layout by reorganizing the interior spaces. The new entry stair and front façade feature expansive openings that provide natural light and views of the garden. The entrance lands on a half-level, with the main living areas and kitchen positioned one flight above, while the bedrooms occupy the lower level, creating a functional and intuitive spatial hierarchy.

Preserving Historic Charm with Modern Upgrades

To honor the home's history, the architects retained and refinished original wood beams, leaving them exposed as a celebration of the property’s craftsmanship. All windows, floors, and finishes were replaced to ensure material continuity throughout the house. The interior palette, dominated by natural wood tones and crisp whites, emphasizes warmth and simplicity, making it a perfect setting for family gatherings, playtime, and entertaining.

Interiors Inspired by Global Design

The interior design reflects international influences, blending vintage Italian furnishings, Japanese design principles, and Californian hippie modernism. A custom dining table by local artisan Nobuto Suga pairs with vintage Tucroma chairs by Guido Faleschini and a Locus Solus Tubular Armchair by Gae Aulenti.

A circular pivot window introduces playful natural light into the living areas. The top-floor kitchen and living room offer sweeping city views, featuring custom White Oak cabinetry, concrete countertops, and polished brass accents, echoing the house’s natural material palette.

Lower Courtyard Lounge – A Tokyo-Inspired Retreat

The lower-level lounge opens onto the ground-level courtyard and channels the ambiance of a Tokyo whiskey bar. Wide-plank White Oak clads the floors, walls, and ceilings, complemented by a record-playing station and a custom velvet daybed, creating a cozy space for relaxation and garden viewing.

Unique Bedrooms and Bathrooms

The guest bedroom features textured hemp plaster walls and ceilings, paired with custom tiled furniture, reflecting Italian modernism. The primary bathroom incorporates Venetian plaster on walls, ceilings, and floors, providing a serene, spa-like atmosphere.

Exterior Design – Contemporary Materials Meet Historic Charm

On the exterior, the house was updated with charcoal-stained cedar siding and a copper standing-seam roof, accentuating the new volume that houses the main stair and entrance. These materials create a timeless yet modern aesthetic that complements the home’s natural and serene landscape setting.

All Photographs are works of Joe Fletcher Photography