Discover elegant Mediterranean-style living at Union Terrace, one of San Francisco's most distinguished historic residential enclaves located at 1020 Union Street in the heart of Russian Hill. Designed by renowned architect T. Paterson Ross in 1921, this exclusive co-operative building features 29 luxury residences surrounded by tranquil terraced gardens, koi ponds, fountains, and spectacular San Francisco Bay views.
Union Terrace stands as a masterpiece of Mediterranean-inspired architecture perched atop Russian Hill, one of San Francisco's original Seven Hills. Architect T. Paterson Ross created this enchanting garden complex with classic architectural details, high ceilings, ornate moldings, and period craftsmanship throughout. So beloved was his design that Ross and his wife moved into Union Terrace upon its completion in 1921, residing there until 1935.
The building embodies quintessential San Francisco elegance with its classic facade, secured entry gates, and meticulously maintained communal gardens featuring lush landscaping, Mediterranean-style terraces, and peaceful water features. Each residence offers private entrances through the magnificent garden courtyard, creating a European village atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Union Terrace offers 29 exclusive co-operative apartments ranging from 1-bedroom to 4-bedroom homes, with many units featuring spectacular panoramic views of San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz Island, Coit Tower, Saints Peter and Paul Church, and the Bay Bridge. Residences showcase timeless features including wood-burning fireplaces, hardwood floors, gracious floor plans with high ceilings (many approaching 10 feet), spacious formal dining rooms, well-appointed kitchens, and private terraces or balconies.
Many units have been meticulously renovated with luxury finishes including gourmet kitchens with premium appliances (Sub-Zero, Wolf, Miele), Carrara marble bathrooms, in-unit washer/dryer, walk-in closets, bonus rooms ideal for home offices or gyms, wine cellars, and private garage parking with direct building access. Several residences feature unique architectural elements such as spiral staircases, multi-level layouts, and wrap-around view decks.
Union Terrace provides exceptional co-operative living with professional on-site property management and caretakers who maintain the world-famous garden courtyard and building grounds. The complex offers secured gated entry, shared laundry facilities, individual garage parking spaces, additional storage units, and meticulously landscaped communal gardens with seating areas perfect for relaxation or entertaining.
Co-op ownership at Union Terrace includes participation in a well-managed residential community with transparent HOA governance. Association fees cover common areas, heating, insurance on structure, exterior maintenance, grounds maintenance, property management, security, trash removal, and water service.
1020 Union Street sits atop Russian Hill at the crest of Union Street, offering residents an enviable location within walking distance to San Francisco's finest dining, shopping, and entertainment. The neighborhood features seven Michelin-starred restaurants including SSAL, Restaurant Nisei, Acquerello, Atelier Crenn, Gary Danko, Quince, and Mister Jiu's.
Residents enjoy easy access to the vibrant Polk Street and Hyde Street corridors filled with cafes, restaurants, boutique shopping, grocery stores, pharmacies, and neighborhood services. North Beach's Italian restaurants and cafes are just down the hill, while Chestnut Street and Union Street shopping in Cow Hollow and Marina districts are moments away. The historic Hyde Street Cable Car line stops just 1.5 blocks away, providing iconic San Francisco transit access.
Russian Hill is renowned for famous Lombard Street ("the crookedest street in the world"), stunning hilltop views, Aquatic Park Cove waterfront access, and classic San Francisco architecture. The neighborhood offers excellent walkability, multiple cable car and bus lines, and proximity to Fisherman's Wharf, Chinatown, and downtown San Francisco.
Nearby parks and recreation include Russian Hill Park, Ina Coolbrith Park, and easy access to Golden Gate Park, Crissy Field, and the Presidio. World-class Napa and Sonoma wineries and Point Reyes National Seashore are just one hour away.
Union Terrace offers excellent San Francisco transportation access including the Hyde Street Cable Car (1.5 blocks), Powell-Hyde Cable Car line, multiple Muni bus lines on Polk Street and Hyde Street, and proximity to major thoroughfares. The location provides exceptional walkability with a Walk Score approaching 98, making daily errands and city exploration effortless.
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