Boldly Iconic – Divisadero by NICOLEHOLLIS

Divisadero is the result of renovating and restoring an Italian Victorian-era townhouse in San Francisco into an expanded family home. NICOLEHOLLIS takes a holistic approach in binding each of the levels together through a consistent palette and tone, carefully weaving the new insertions among the heritage detailing.

Originally owned by local architect Julia Morgan, Divisadero presented an opportunity for both Nicole Hollis and her husband to restore and live within an important part of the architectural history of San Francisco. Undeniably, the thin and vertical language of the home is distinctive of the city. While the outer extents remain, the interior is replanned to align with the demands of a contemporary residence, and key detailing and mouldings were reinstated with reclaimed materials to maintain the dwelling’s identity.

While the outer extents remain, the interior is replanned to align with the demands of a contemporary residence, and key detailing and mouldings were reinstated with reclaimed materials to maintain the dwelling’s identity.

The process took three years to complete, and the owner and design team wanted to ensure their efforts would have lasting resonance. Many of the plaster details that had been removed over the years had been re-introduced to ensure the original architect’s design intent continued. The kitchen and living spaces were reoriented to become the new heart of the home, and select walls were opened and removed to allow clearer access between zones. Most notably, a new master bedroom and ensuite is tucked into the basement level, added after removing existing retaining walls to open the envelope of the structure.

On the upper levels, a similar openness connects the interior, and a base palette of monochromatic finishes allows furniture, artwork and lighting to stand out. The restraint in the base colour also ensures the detailing of the actual home shapes the spaces in a subtle way. Throughout the residence, statement lighting injects a contemporary touch, while both older and newer pieces are dotted throughout. Further instilling a sense of drama, the exterior is painted a solid black colour and the kitchen features statement natural stone in dark tones. Acting as a place to gather, socialise and prepare meals, the expanded kitchen reflects a modern way of living.

Originally owned by local architect Julia Morgan, Divisadero presented an opportunity for both Nicole Hollis and her husband to restore and live within an important part of the architectural history of San Francisco.

Bridging the eras, the architectural work of Julia Morgan is respected in the work of NICOLEHOLLIS, which captures an evolution of design thinking. After being left in bad repair, Divisadero not only is given a new lease on life and chapter but now sits in the safe hands of an appreciative custodian.