Two units as bookends … instead of a dark hallway - 1991-1992 Western Home Awards

Sunset, Oct, 1991

RAILROAD FLATS WITH hallways running from front to back are common in San Francisco, and they're usually very dark: light can't reach the core.

"This two-unit building broke away from the layer-cake approach," explained juror Morrall, noting that the units are set side by side to gain vertical space and access to light.

Each 1,750-square-foot unit is organized on three floors above the garage. The master suite overlooks the living room, and additional bedrooms are on the entry level. A giant two-story window dominates each unit, capturing views and daylight.

The units have their own identities: the street-facing one (below) is white siding and yellow stucco; the rear one (not shown) is shingle clad. Ehrlich described the street facade as "fresh, happy, and full of color," while Hood said it "fits with its neighbors yet enlivens the block."