653 Dolores Street

THE LIGHT HOUSE ON DOLORES

Welcome to THE LIGHT HOUSE, a distinctive, luxury townhome in the heart of Dolores Heights. The Light House offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to live in the historic center of San Francisco, with world-class culinary options nearby, Dolores Park as your front yard and a place to call home that is as unique as you are.

Formerly a church, The Light House is a magnificent extension of the vision of architect William H. Crim, who created this neoclassical style building, with it's elegantly arched entry porticos, Tuscan columns, and soaring 30-foot cathedral ceilings. 
 
This incredible building consists of four amazing and truly stunning units of a remarkable scale, at over 5,000 sq. ft. each, unlike anything available in today’s real estate market.  These are the perfect homes for the discerning, cosmopolitan buyer who seeks to have privacy, a magnificent luxury home and immediate access to the best of world-class San Francisco.

Unit 653

Set directly across from Dolores Park, this extraordinary four-level residence is a masterful church conversion blending historic grandeur with refined contemporary design. Behind double copper-clad walnut doors, a dramatic foyer with grey marble flooring introduces a flexible eight-room floor plan offering three bedrooms and three full baths. The soaring great room—anchored by 30-foot ceilings—showcases original architectural elements including exposed steel, brick, and timber, barrel-arched plaster ceilings, soaring art glass windows, and bespoke lighting. A sculptural steel-and-timber stair leads from the foyer into the living room.  An original large staircase leads up to the series of lofted spaces, including a loft overlooking the great room and a stunning primary suite with lounge, custom walk-in closet, and spa bath featuring a limestone Roman tub and a glass-enclosed shower. Off the great room are two flexible use rooms that can function as offices, wine tasting rooms or even guest space.

Designed for both elevated entertaining and everyday living, the chef’s kitchen rises 15 feet and pairs Polylac cabinetry with granite counters, premium Miele appliances, and a custom rolling ladder that tucks discreetly into a separate pantry. Original structural beams define the breakfast peninsula, while Juno LED track lighting suspended from recycled timber adds architectural drama. Throughout the home, ceiling heights range from 12 to 15 feet, with polished concrete, fir, and oak floors enhancing the interplay of old and new. A ground-level includes a third large bedroom and full bath plus media or gaming space or creative studio with separate entry, generous storage and laundry.  There is direct access from here into the buildings private garden and also into the garage.  Parking is for 1 large or two medium sized cars.

The building itself reflects uncompromising craftsmanship: a steel-frame superstructure of original Carnegie steel, concrete buttresses, old-growth timber diaphragms, and an extensive modern seismic retrofit with deep micro-piles and structural reinforcement. Double-wall soundproofing, advanced thermal insulation, and a custom-engineered climate system ensure comfort across all four levels. Residents enjoy a serene shared Zen garden crafted from reclaimed materials, deeded parking with direct access, bicycle storage, and a private storage room.

Positioned at the crossroads of Valencia, The Castro, Noe Valley, and the Mission, this home sits in the heart of San Francisco’s most vibrant culinary and cultural corridors. Conceived, designed, and built by and for the developer—with ongoing stewardship—this is a rare offering where architectural integrity, luxury craftsmanship, and iconic location converge. Shown by private appointment only. The unit is currently tenant occupied and will be vacated by mid-April, 2026. 

Located within easy walking distance of several amazing neighborhoods including the Valencia/Guerrero Gastro Corridor, The Castro and Upper Market and Noe Valley.  Commutes a breeze with quick access to 280 or to Downtown.  This home sits practically in the heart of San Francisco.  

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