Russian Hill Pied-à-Terre

San Francisco, Ca

2026

A San Francisco Retreat with East Coast Sensibilities

Perched above San Francisco in Russian Hill, this sophisticated pied-à-terre offers sweeping views of Alcatraz, Coit Tower, the Marin Headlands, and the city skyline. After years in New York and summers spent on Nantucket, the homeowners relocated to California to be closer to family, seeking a comfortable, low-maintenance home that would accommodate their love of travel and time with their granddaughters.

  • Living room with dark wood accent wall, fireplace, large grey sofa with pillows, armchair, circular wooden coffee table with decorative items and a tall black vase with branches, next to a window with curtains, and a pinkish rug on wooden floor.

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  • A modern dining room with a wooden table, beige chair, and a brown-and-cream ottoman. There is a wooden shelving unit with decorative objects on the left, a large colorful abstract painting on the wall, and a black bar cabinet with glass shelves and gold accents on the right. A black vase with dark flowers is on the table, and a sliding glass door is partially visible on the right.

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  • Rooftop outdoor sitting area with modern black wicker furniture, cushions, a fire pit with flames, and potted plants with city buildings in the background. BallonStudio is a luxury interior design that designs longevity homes and nourishing outdoors

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ballonSTUDIO approached the interiors with a modern traditional sensibility, blending East Coast influences with a relaxed West Coast lifestyle. Existing furnishings were thoughtfully incorporated alongside contemporary pieces, layered architectural details, and custom built-in cabinetry to create a home that feels both familiar and fresh. An open living and dining area provides space for entertaining, while a guest bedroom with twin beds welcomes the granddaughters for weekend visits.

The result is a refined yet welcoming city retreat designed for flexibility, comfort, and longevity. Balancing understated luxury with everyday practicality, the home reflects the homeowners' past while embracing a new chapter in San Francisco.

“We translated the client’s global life into a cohesive home—original African artworks, a grounded palette, and tailored furnishings—then brought it across the finish line with a complete, ready-to-live-in installation.”
— Sabra Ballon, Principal

THE BROADWAY PENTHOUSE
Location: Russian Hill, San Francisco CA
Square Footage: 3,300
Interior Design: BallonStudio
General Contractor:
Photography: Brad Knipstein

PROJECT TEAM
Sabra Ballon, Ceara Studio, Allegra Hsiao

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