San Francisco’s architectural landscape is rich and diverse, known for its iconic Victorian and Edwardian structures, but the city also boasts a range of often-overlooked buildings that contribute significantly to its character.
In the latest edition of the Pro Tips series, seven local architects shared their insights on some of these hidden gems that lie in plain sight.
Among the highlighted spots is a church located on a quiet corner in Pacific Heights. Designed by Arthur Page Brown, who also created the iconic Ferry Building, this church stands as an embodiment of humility and inspiration.
Opened in 1895 for congregants of the New Church, or Swedenborgianism, the structure remains mostly unchanged, with its intimate garden nestled at the back of an uphill corner parcel.
Architect Meckel praises its unique craftsmanship, which includes 80 original, beautifully designed maple chairs that lack nails, giving visitors a distinct experience of naturalism and warmth.
Another notable entry is the VC Morris Building in Union Square, a design by the renowned Frank Lloyd Wright originally intended as a gift shop for the city’s aristocracy.
Jennings, who has received accolades for his architectural excellence, regards the building as a vital part of the city fabric that stands out due to its atypical design amidst the conformity of the surrounding area.
He encourages pedestrians to take a moment to appreciate the building’s unique facade and interior spiral ramp, a precursor to Wright’s later work on the Guggenheim Museum.
Moving on to the industrial sector, a starkly modern lab building at 505 Parnassus Ave. catches the eye of architect Saitowitz.
This structure showcases a design philosophy where form follows function, featuring exposed air ducts and stacked floors that visually narrate its workings, reminiscent of the Centre Pompidou in Paris.
Saitowitz appreciates the authenticity present in the building, contrasting sharply with the neoclassical surroundings.
In a nod to the educational landscape, Iwamoto from UC Berkeley highlights the Paffard Keatinge-Clay-designed addition to the San Francisco Art Institute.
Constructed in 1969, this Brutalist structure features a stepped concrete roof that doubles as an outdoor amphitheater.
Iwamoto describes it as embodying a critical architectural era in the Bay Area that, despite its tough appearance, is built on principles of community engagement and gathering.
Another architectural gem can be found near Chinatown, where a remarkably simplistic three-story black-and-white building exemplifies Miesian-style architecture. Fougeron underscores its beauty, emphasized by its contrast to the towering structures that surround it.
With ample light pouring in from two corners, the building captivates pedestrians, serving as a visual beacon amidst the hustle of the city.
Choksombatchai finds a unique fascination in a public parking garage – a nine-story structure designed with a curved concrete form that plays with geometry and aesthetics.
With a helix-shaped ramp, the garage exudes a certain exuberance, crafting a visual experience that celebrates architectural form without pretense.
Lastly, the Wave Organ at Crissy Field stands as a testament to artistic innovation, creating a unique auditory landscape as it interacts with the Bay’s waters.
Crafted from concrete and utilizing PVC pipe and granite from a former cemetery, the organ offers an enchanting sensory experience that combines sound and setting, providing a delightful visit for all.
Each of these suggestions from local architects sheds light on the myriad of architectural wonders found throughout San Francisco, urging residents and visitors alike to take a moment to explore and appreciate these lesser-known treasures that play a role in shaping the city’s distinctive character.
image source from：https://sfstandard.com/2025/06/01/san-francisco-frank-lloyd-wright-architecture-design/
