At Kyle Hill Design, we believe every home has a unique story to tell, and 847 Fillmore is no exception. Nestled in San Francisco’s historic Alamo Square District—just a stone’s throw from the famous Painted Ladies—this Victorian masterpiece has stood tall since 1893. With its rich history, enviable location, and undeniable charm, it was the perfect candidate for a transformation that honored its past while embracing the needs of contemporary living.
Remodeling a Victorian Classic in San Francisco
The moment we stepped inside 847 Fillmore, we saw more than just an aging home—we saw an opportunity to breathe new life into a San Francisco landmark. Entrusted with a full-scale renovation, our team set out to reimagine key areas, including the kitchen, living room, primary suite, and rooftop space, blending historic elegance with modern comfort.
A crucial element of this project was maintaining the home’s architectural integrity while incorporating updated functionality. Thanks to a structural reinforcement completed in 2007—enhancing its resilience with steel and concrete—this Victorian gem had a rock-solid foundation, providing the perfect canvas for our vision.
A Seamless Fusion of Old and New: A Dream Home Design
Spanning an impressive 4,619 square feet, this luxurious two-unit residence now embodies a perfect balance of classic charm and modern design. The main home, situated on the upper level, features three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a refined living space, and a beautifully reimagined kitchen. Outdoor access to both a private backyard and a rooftop deck further enhances the living experience.
On the lower level, a fully equipped studio unit—with its own bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and laundry—adds both versatility and value. Whether used as a guest suite or rental property, it’s a thoughtful addition that aligns with San Francisco’s dynamic housing market.
By carefully restoring original architectural details while seamlessly integrating modern enhancements, we’ve given this home a fresh new chapter - one that respects its storied past while embracing the future.
Transforming San Francisco Homes With Thoughtful Design
At Kyle Hill Design, we specialize in reimagining San Francisco homes with a deep appreciation for their history and architectural beauty. Whether we’re revitalizing a Victorian in Alamo Square or elevating a contemporary space in SoMa, our goal is always the same: to blend timeless elegance with modern-day livability.
If you’re considering a home renovation in San Francisco, we’d love to help bring your vision to life. Get in touch with us today, and let’s create something extraordinary together.
Check the transformation in this video series.
Q & A with Lead Designer Kyle Hill
Q: What was your first impression of the home when you first went in and saw it?
A: “My first thought was this home has really amazing bones. It's a diamond in the rough, and it just needs a little bit of love to really show its true potential.”
Q: When speaking with the current owner, what was one of the things that surprised you during that conversation about the home?
A: “How open and willing he was to make the necessary changes and updates to truly make it a showpiece.”
Q: What was your vision for the home to give it a new life?
A: “I wanted it to feel like a modern Victorian home. Where we pay tribute to the past, but we also designed it for the future.”
Q: Were there any historic features that were preserved during the renovation?
A: “Absolutely everything. We preserved all the fireplaces, mantles, and woodwork. We kept all of that within the home”.
Q: Can you share any challenges you faced during this process?
A: “The biggest challenge for me was because we didn't have an unlimited budget. We had to be extremely strategic in what we chose to keep and what we chose to update.”
Before and After: Behind the Transformation
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