San Francisco’s Victorian Haas-Lilienthal House

In this installment of ‘Larger Than Life: Architecture Through the Ages,’ we learn that this well-constructed home survived the earthquake of 1906.

The façade of the Haas-Lilienthal House shows the pitched roof, wrap-around porch, bay window, and stained glass windows with intricate framing typical of Queen Anne style Victorian homes. All elements of the exterior are made of redwood as it is plentiful, easy to carve, durable, and pest-resistant. The home's size, décor, and more ornate intricate gingerbread displayed the owner’s wealth and importance. Library of Congress. Public Domain

The Haas-Lilienthal House in San Francisco is a stunning example of American Victorian-era architecture that has stood the test of time. Built in 1886 for William and Bertha Haas, the house was occupied by three generations from 1886 until 1972.

The house was designed by Bavarian architect Peter R. Schmidt and constructed by contractors McCann and Biddell. The 11,500-square-foot mansion embodies the ambitious spirit of San Francisco’s pioneers and its grand Victorian-period architecture.