A rare San Francisco mid-century unicorn designed by architect Claude Oakland for the iconic developer Joseph Eichler in 1962 lists for a whopping $3,495,000. The 190 Amber Drive house was a part of Eichler’s unusual Diamond Heights experiment. He built 104 single-family houses for San Francisco’s steep terrain and compact urban lots. Among these single-family residences, the highly coveted property stands apart with its exceptionally large footprint that is double the size of neighboring Eichler lots.
The 190 Amber Drive house sits within the only single-family Eichler enclave in San Francisco, California. The unique location and uneven terrain allowed the house to remain unattached on one side, letting the current owners create additional living space, generous glazing, and turn the expansive garden into a private oasis. These facilities remain unavailable to the rest of the Eichler houses, making this residence a true exception in the neighborhood.
The property retains the prized original mahogany paneling and several signature Eichler elements like large sliding doors and floor-to-ceiling windows. The owners updated the main level flooring with matte gray concrete and warm oak along the staircase and upper floor. The muted material palette complements the mid-century aesthetic.
Designed for everyday living and entertainment, the main level includes a spacious living room with a fireplace that flows into the dining room and the renovated kitchen. The owners renovated the kitchen with custom Henrybuilt cabinetry and an oversized glazed window that offers views of the surrounding landscape.
A large glass-wrapped office room with a fireplace sits adjacent to the main-level living space and includes skylights, built-in desks, comfortable seating, and glazed sliding doors that seamlessly connect indoors with outdoors. It also doubles as a fourth bedroom. The powder room, additional closets, and storage room complete the main level.
The warm oak flooring upstairs and along the staircase exudes natural warmth and creates a cozy private space. It includes three bedrooms and two updated bathrooms. The bathrooms retain original Eichler details like light fixtures and medicine cabinets, while the renovation added luxurious modern touches. The primary suite includes an en-suite bathroom, a walk-in closet, and space for a home gym. The sliding doors open onto a private deck with beautiful southern views.
Also Read: Salt Box is Stone-Clad Family Retreat in Dense Orchards Echoing Stillness of Mountains
The expansive outdoor space includes a large wooden deck built with Brazilian Ipe and a custom stainless-steel soaking tub by Diamond Spas, offering a relaxing soaking session amid immersive natural ambience. You can admire the stunning views of the Glen Canyon and Mount Davidson while lounging on the deck or strolling in the garden. The house also offers an easily accessible one-car garage.
The 190 Amber Drive house offers a private retreat-like living experience. The well-preserved Eichler’s mid-century aesthetic and modern updates make this residence truly one-of-a-kind. Outdoor amenities, like the hot tub, multiple sitting areas, herb garden, and ipe wooden deck, provide unmatched relaxation and entertainment. The property is listed with Droubi Team’s agent Lamisse Droubi for $3,495,000.
