San Francisco’s row houses, famously called the Painted Ladies, are iconic for their vibrant colors and Victorian charm. Located at 710–720 Steiner Street near Alamo Square, these houses are a must-see. This post dives into their history, architecture, and why they’re so special.
What Are the Painted Ladies?
The Painted Ladies are Victorian and Edwardian row houses painted in three or more colors. The most famous group, known as Postcard Row or Seven Sisters, sits at 710–720 Steiner Street. They feature bay windows, ornate trim, and steep roofs, making them a symbol of San Francisco’s charm.
- Location: 710–720 Steiner Street, Alamo Square
- Nickname: Postcard Row, Seven Sisters
- Style: Victorian and Edwardian
- Key Features: Bright colors, intricate details
History of the Painted Ladies
Built between 1892 and 1896 by developer Matthew Kavanaugh, the Painted Ladies weren’t always colorful. Here’s their story:
- 1892–1896: Kavanaugh constructs the row houses.
- 1960s: Artist Butch Kardum starts the colorist movement, painting homes in bold hues.
- 1978: The term “Painted Ladies” becomes popular with the book Painted Ladies: San Francisco’s Resplendent Victorians.
The 1960s colorist movement used bright colors to highlight architectural details, transforming these houses into cultural icons.
Architectural Style
The Painted Ladies blend Victorian (1837–1901) and Edwardian (1901–1910) styles:
- Victorian: Known for ornate details like bay windows, intricate moldings, and steep roofs. Popular during the Gold Rush, when San Francisco’s population boomed.
- Edwardian: Simpler, with clean lines, symmetrical facades, and lighter ornamentation. Many Edwardian homes were built after the 1906 earthquake.
San Francisco has more Edwardian than Victorian homes due to the 1906 fire, which destroyed many older structures.
| Style | Period | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Victorian | 1837–1901 | Ornate, bay windows, steep roofs |
| Edwardian | 1901–1910 | Simple, symmetrical, light ornamentation |
Why Are They So Colorful?
In the 1960s, artists like Butch Kardum used bold colors to emphasize architectural details, reviving a trend from the 1880s. During World Wars I and II, many homes were painted gray with surplus Navy paint. The colorist movement brought back vibrant hues, reflecting San Francisco’s creative spirit.
Cultural Significance
The Painted Ladies are a cultural landmark, featured in Full House, The Five-Year Engagement, and more. They symbolize San Francisco’s Gold Rush history and artistic flair, drawing tourists to Alamo Square for stunning skyline views.
How to Visit the Painted Ladies
Visit the Painted Ladies at Alamo Square, accessible by public transit. Early mornings or late afternoons offer soft light and fewer crowds. Nearby attractions include:
- Alamo Square Park: Perfect for picnics with Painted Ladies views.
- Asian Art Museum: Open Tuesday–Sunday, 10 am–5 pm.
- Golden Gate Bridge: A short drive away.
Other Notable Victorian Houses in San Francisco
Beyond the Painted Ladies, explore these Victorian gems:
- Full House House: 1709 Broderick Street, featured in Full House (no red door anymore).
- Haight-Ashbury: Colorful Victorian homes from the same era.
- Pacific Heights: Grand mansions, like the C. A. Belden House.
Learn more about San Francisco’s neighborhoods in our post on Best family neighborhoods in San Diego.
Row Houses in Other Cities
Cities like Baltimore and Philadelphia have row houses, often called brownstones. Unlike San Francisco’s colorful Painted Ladies, these are typically uniform in style. The Painted Ladies’ vibrant individuality sets them apart.
San Francisco’s Architectural Diversity
San Francisco boasts diverse styles, from Victorian to modern. About 48,000 Victorian and Edwardian homes were built from 1849 to 1915, though many were lost in 1906. Neighborhoods like Haight-Ashbury and Pacific Heights showcase this variety.
For insights into the city’s housing market, read Why are houses in San Francisco so expensive?.
Conclusion
The Painted Ladies are more than row houses—they’re a symbol of San Francisco’s history and creativity. Their colorful facades and Victorian charm captivate visitors. Plan a trip to Alamo Square to see them and explore the city’s architectural treasures.