Tom Steyer, the billionaire environmental activist and former presidential candidate, is set to build a modern mansion in San Francisco’s exclusive Sea Cliff neighborhood, replacing a nearly 90-year-old home with sweeping views of the Golden Gate Bridge. The plans for the property at 496 Sea Cliff Avenue have been approved by the San Francisco Planning Department, allowing Steyer and his family trust to construct a 7,500-square-foot, three-story residence. The new home will feature a design reminiscent of Frank Lloyd Wright’s work, with structural concrete walls, cedarwood soffits, and cascading plants off terraces. The property will also include a 900-square-foot accessory dwelling unit (ADU). steyer, who owns the adjacent property at 494 Sea Cliff Avenue, is expected to occupy that home during construction. The project reflects steyer’s commitment to sustainability,with green roofs planted with native vegetation. Steyer, who made his fortune as the founder of the hedge fund Farallon Capital, is known for his environmental activism and political contributions, including a $10 million ad campaign in 2017 calling for the impeachment of then-President Donald Trump. The new mansion will replace a 5,500-square-foot home built in 1938, marking a meaningful conversion for the iconic Sea Cliff neighborhood.
Tom Steyer’s Modern Mansion set to Transform San Francisco’s sea Cliff Neighborhood
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Billionaire environmental activist and former presidential candidate Tom Steyer is making waves in San Francisco’s exclusive Sea Cliff neighborhood with plans to build a striking modern mansion. The project, approved by the San Francisco Planning Department, will replace a nearly 90-year-old home at 496 Sea Cliff Avenue, offering sweeping views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
The new residence, designed by Sean Bailey Design and Studio Earth Work, will span 7,500 square feet across three stories. Its design draws inspiration from Frank Lloyd Wright, featuring structural concrete walls, cedarwood soffits, and cascading plants off terraces. The property will also include a 900-square-foot accessory dwelling unit (ADU), adding to its functionality and appeal.
Steyer, who owns the adjacent property at 494 Sea Cliff Avenue, is expected to occupy that home during construction. The project reflects his commitment to sustainability, with green roofs planted with native vegetation. “The design is reminiscent of Frank Lloyd Wright’s work, with structural concrete walls, cedarwood soffits, and cascading plants off of terraces — with green roofs as well planted with native vegetation,” as reported by SFist.
A Legacy of Activism and Wealth
Steyer, 67, made his fortune as the founder of the hedge fund Farallon Capital. Beyond his financial success,he is widely known for his environmental activism and political contributions. In 2017, he spent $10 million on a national ad campaign calling for the impeachment of then-President Donald Trump, stating that Trump was “threatening news organizations and pushing the US to the brink of nuclear war.” this campaign came two years before Trump’s first impeachment.
Steyer has also been a megadonor to the Democratic Party and briefly ran for president in the 2020 election. His political and environmental endeavors have made him a prominent figure in both national and local discourse.
A New Chapter for Sea Cliff
The new mansion will replace a 5,500-square-foot home built in 1938, marking a significant transformation for the iconic Sea Cliff neighborhood. The project not only modernizes the property but also aligns with Steyer’s sustainability ethos. The inclusion of green roofs and native vegetation underscores his commitment to environmental stewardship.
As the San Francisco Chronicle notes, the approved permits allow Steyer and his family trust to proceed with the construction of this modern masterpiece. The project is poised to become a landmark in one of San Francisco’s most prestigious neighborhoods.
Key Details of the Project
| Feature | Details |
|—————————|—————————————————————————–|
| Location | 496 Sea Cliff Avenue, San Francisco |
| Size | 7,500 square feet, three stories |
| Design | Inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright, with concrete walls and cedarwood soffits |
| Additional Unit | 900-square-foot ADU |
| Sustainability Features | Green roofs with native vegetation |
| Current Home | 5,500-square-foot home built in 1938 |
The construction of this modern mansion is not just a personal project for Steyer but a testament to his vision for sustainable living. As the project unfolds, it will undoubtedly become a focal point in the Sea Cliff neighborhood, blending modern design with environmental consciousness.
For more updates on this and other developments in San Francisco, stay tuned to SFist and the San Francisco Chronicle.
Headline:
The Modern Mansion Revolution: A Conversation with Architecture Historian Dr. Lucy Holt
Introduction:
Dr. Lucy Holt, a renowned architecture historian and specialist in lasting design, joins us today to discuss the upcoming conversion of San Francisco’s exclusive Sea cliff neighborhood. We delve into billionaire environmental activist and former presidential candidate Tom Steyer’s plans to build a modern mansion, inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright, that reflect his commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Dr. Lucy Holt on the Intersection of Steyer’s Modern Mansion and Frank Lloyd Wright’s Legacy
World Today News (WTN): Dr. Holt, Tom steyer’s new mansion in Sea Cliff is said to be reminiscent of Frank Lloyd Wright’s work. How does this project pay homage to Wright’s legacy?
Dr. Lucy Holt (DLH): Well, Wright’s influence is evident in several aspects of Steyer’s project. the use of structural concrete walls, the integration of native vegetation, and the cascading plants off the terraces all echo Wright’s organic architecture philosophy. Wright believed in harmonizing structures with their natural surroundings, a principle Steyer seems to be adopting wholeheartedly.
Dr. holt on Steyer’s Commitment to Sustainability
WTN: Speaking of harmony, the project includes green roofs planted with native vegetation. How does this element contribute to the sustainability aspect of the design?
DLH: Green roofs are an excellent way to improve a building’s sustainability. They absorb rainwater,reduce stormwater runoff,and provide thermal insulation,lowering energy consumption.But most importantly, they support local biodiversity by providing habitat for native plants and wildlife. Steyer’s commitment to using native vegetation on these green roofs demonstrates an understanding of how architecture can nurture and benefit its ecosystem.
The Impact of Steyer’s Mansion on the Sea Cliff Neighborhood
WTN: This new mansion will replace an almost 90-year-old home, marking a significant transformation for the iconic sea Cliff neighborhood.How might Steyer’s new home influence the area’s landscape and reputation?
DLH: Sea Cliff is already known for its prestigious homes, but Steyer’s mansion promises to introduce a modern aesthetic that will undoubtedly change the neighborhood’s skyline. Moreover, the inclusion of an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) signals a willingness to engage with the community, possibly encouraging more homeowners to adopt similar accessory structures, thus adding to the neighborhood’s density and vibrancy.
Dr. Holt on Steyer’s Public Image and the Project
WTN: Given Steyer’s activism and public image, do you think this mansion project might be seen as contradictory to his environmental efforts?
DLH: Not at all. In fact, this project seems to align perfectly with Steyer’s environmental advocacy. By investing in sustainable design and showcasing it in a high-profile neighborhood, steyer is essentially using his privilege to champion a cause he believes in. This mansion could serve as a tangible example of how sustainability and luxury can coexist, hopefully inspiring others to follow suit.
Dr. Holt’s Final Thoughts
WTN: dr. Holt, thank you for your insightful analysis. Do you have any final thoughts on Tom Steyer’s modern mansion project?
DLH: I believe this project is a testament to Steyer’s vision for sustainable living in an urban context. It’s not just about building a stunning home; it’s about creating a sustainable sanctuary that reflects his values and contributes positively to the community. I’m excited to see how this project unfolds and influences Sea cliff and San Francisco as a whole.
WTN: Thank you, Dr. Holt. We’ve certainly gained valuable perspective on this exciting development. For more updates on this and other developments in San Francisco, keep an eye on SFist and the San francisco Chronicle.
[end of Interview]
