San Francisco’s prestigious Sea Cliff neighborhood is known for its historic homes set on high bluffs above the Pacific Ocean with picturesque Golden Gate Bridge views. Now, a rare Bay Area mansion that once belonged to George Sarlo, founder of one of the earliest venture capital firms in the city, is up for grabs.
On the market for $26 million with Tania Toubba and Debi DiCello of Sotheby’s International Realty, the 1920s oceanfront gem is perched above the ocean and was originally designed by architect Earle B. Bertz. Today, the Mediterranean-style abode spans nearly 8,000 square feet and comprises four bedroom suites and four full bathrooms.
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According to property records, Sarlo bought the palatial pad back in 1993 for $2.2 million. The 86-year-old venture capitalist is the co-founder of Walden Capital Management and formally established the Sarlo Family Foundation in 2011, a nonprofit that focuses on supporting the country’s youth. The house itself is currently owned by the foundation, and all the proceeds from the sale will benefit grants made by the organization.
The three-story home is reminiscent of an Italian villa and mixes in Spanish Revival influences. Think soaring vaulted ceilings, tons of arched doorways, and classic decorative detailing. Sarlo has updated the place over the years, including remodeling the chef’s kitchen, which is decked out with marble counters, top-of-the-line appliances, and a breakfast room. Additional renovations include a new roof, a two-car parking garage, and two Tesla Powerwalls.
Naturally, there are plenty of areas to entertain, from the spacious living room to the formal dining room with arched leaded windows and a black marble fireplace. Downstairs, you’ll find a media room with a walkout deck and a kitchenette that can be used for guests.
The storied estate is a reflection of its seaside setting, with walls of glass overlooking the ocean, Lands End, and the Presidio. “I have a deep abiding appreciation for the Presidio and its trails, which I use often,” Sarlo said in a statement. “My hope is that even more people can see what I have come to appreciate in this park.”
The Sea Cliff neighborhood was developed between 1913 and 1928 and over the last century has played host to many big-league movers and shakers ranging from tech moguls like Jack Dorsey to musicians Linda Ronstadt and Metallica guitarist Kirk Hammett. The late actor and comedian Robin Williams had a home in Sea Cliff that was put up for sale by his ex-wife last year, and actress Sharon Stone occupied an Italianate-Victorian abode for nearly a decade.
Click here to see more photos of 290 Sea Cliff.
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