At Franklin and California

I may have posted similar views of some of these Pacific Heights houses before, but I never get tired of gazing at this turn-of-the-century architecture — steep gables, enthusiastic gingerbread, rounded turrets, and vast covered porches. Even some of the less ornate structures exude a certain historic charm, especially when contrasted with the modern buildings surrounding them. Very few of these old mansions are open to the public; in fact, most have completely remodeled and modernized interiors, now divided into separate living spaces. But from the sidewalk, the illusion remains intact.

On Franklin near Sacramento Street

Clay and Gough, across from Lafayette Park

C.A. Belden House

Atherton House

At first glance, I thought the Tobin House (left) was a church building

Tobin House, built 1915

Gough, between Sacramento and California