Historic Architectural and Delightful Urban Retreat

Designed by world-famous Architect Irving J. Gill, this wonderful architecturally significant 1910 home has been meticulously maintained and preserved, and recently honored with membership in the Iconic Houses worldwide network of the most significant Modernist homes. The house was so ahead of its time that you might think it is Mid-century Modern even though it was built well before mid-century. It is open and light and has great views into its private garden.
This home has a stunning and unique character. The home has been updated to include all modern conveniences but maintains its historic charm and integrity. With a chef's kitchen and a short walk to Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, and other gourmet stores, you can stay at home and make your own tasty meals, or you can walk to many amazing restaurants and amenities in the surrounding Hillcrest neighborhood.
Gill is widely regarded as San Diego's first prominent architect and the first Modernist architect in California. The house is designed for maximum sun, breeze, and privacy. Original Gill details have been meticulously maintained throughout the home. In addition to the home's incredible location in the Hillcrest/midtown area, it is convenient to nearly everything San Diego has to offer. The home's fine architectural character, beauty, and calmness will make it hard to leave. Your host is the founder and president of the Irving J. Gill Foundation.
The house is limited to four overnight guests, but we do provide place settings for up to 6 guests. We also provide a gas grill, should you want to host two guests for a small dinner party.
On the ground floor, the home features an amazing living room to gather in with a functioning gas fireplace. Upstairs there are two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and an entertainment room. A second-floor deck looking out on the street in front offers a great place to enjoy San Diego's perfect year-round climate, though guests are advised to be cautious around the deck's historic guardrails, which are lower than contemporary homes.
The garage will fit one car, but it is a tight space. Most cars will fit fine, but large SUVs will not. There is also free street parking in front of the home, but like most of midtown San Diego, it can get busy during normal work hours and during nearby events.
Self-check in. Guests will be given a code to enter on a keypad and enter through a side door. A keypad was not placed on the front door to maintain its historical character.
Hillcrest is a popular older San Diego neighborhood. Many streets are lined with trees. There are many Gill homes in the area as well as California Craftsman homes.
The neighborhood is bounded by Mission Hills to the northwest, Bankers Hill and Balboa Park to the south, University Heights to the north, and North Park to the east. A large ridge overlooking San Diego Bay borders the neighborhood to the west.
Hillcrest is centrally located. The neighborhoods of Hillcrest, Balboa Park, Bankers Hill, Misson Hills, North Park, and downtown San Diego are very close and easy to get to. Thanks to its central location and San Diego’s freeway system, all of San Diego is within easy reach by car.
But it is OK to stay in Hillcrest too! It is a vibrant neighborhood with special events like: a weekly farmers market; a monthly Walk in ART event; and annual events like Taste of Hillcrest, Pride Block Party, and CityFest. Hillcrest if also a great location for the annual Pride Parade and the Rock n Roll marathon. San Diego’s famous Comic-Con is just a few minutes away in downtown San Diego.
• Superb architectural design
• Fully equipped chef's kitchen
• SmartTV w/ Roku
• Extremely safe neighborhood
• Easy walking to Whole Foods, cafes, restaurants, and more
• Walk Score 94 (walker's paradise)
• Bike Score 79 (very bike-able)
• Very close to the zoo, beaches, Balboa Park, and more
• Close to golf courses
• Beaches only 7 easy miles away
• 11 min drive or Uber/Lyft to downtown San Diego and Little Italy
Please note that a STR rental agreement is required for this property.