Why is this building called “Le Petit Trianon”? It stands before us as a testament to San Francisco’s grandeur. Koshland House is one of the city’s most prominent homes. It has been celebrated for over a century.
Koshland House is located in Presidio Heights. The city designated it San Francisco Landmark 95 in 1977. In 1983, it joined the National Register of Historic Places. The Department of City Planning recognized it as among the city’s best in 1976.
Marcus and Corinne Koshland built the mansion between 1902 and 1904. Marcus was the son of Simon Koshland. Simon founded Koshland Brothers. This firm imported and exported wool, hides, and fur.
Corinne Koshland played an important role in establishing the San Francisco Symphony and Opera. Her love of music filled Koshland House. It became a venue for musical events supporting the Symphony. Yehudi Menuhin and Issac Stern once graced the halls of Koshland House. Leonard Bernstein, Jascha Heifitz, Pierre Monteaux, and Igor Stravinski also visited.
The architecture of Koshland House is stunning. Franklin S. Van Trees designed it. The design was modeled after the Petit Trianon in Versailles, France. While details differ slightly, the concept is virtually identical. Bruce Porter contributed art glass windows. He also designed the original landscaping.
The front elevation of Koshland House is a replica of the Petit Trianon. Ange-Jacques Gabriel designed the original in 1761. Corinthian columns support a balustraded parapet. White marble steps rise to a broad terrace. Cast iron light standards with lavender glass spheres stand at the entrance.
Inside Koshland House, a foyer with marble floors and walls greets visitors. The atrium brings light into the center of the house. Green Irish marble columns support a skylight. The salon once featured decor imported from an 18th-century French chateau. The library has concealed bookshelves behind wooden panels. The dining room features dark woods and a beamed ceiling. A ballroom in the basement features mirrored panels.
The 1906 San Francisco earthquake damaged Koshland House. The cornice and front columns collapsed. They were soon replaced, restoring the mansion to its original splendor.
Over the years, Koshland House has seen many owners. Walter Buck purchased it in 1955. Attorney Paul Renne bought it in 1977. Charles Pankow and Heide Betz owned it later. Internet pioneer Halsey Minor also lived here.
By 2015, Koshland House had fallen into disrepair. It was even squatted. In 2019, it was put on the market for $30 million. It has twice been the site of the San Francisco Decorator’s Showcase. This showcase highlights the talents of Bay Area designers.
Koshland House stands as a reminder of San Francisco’s rich history. Its architecture and stories captivate all who pass by. It earned its place on the National Register of Historic Places. It truly represents the end of an era in San Francisco.