The Exterior

Working out of the Beaux Arts tradition, architects Bliss & Faville chose a classic Italian Renaissance design for the Flood Mansion. After four gently rising steps, the arched entrance is framed by two Corinthian columns. Outside of the spiraled columns, the first of their kind to be seen in San Francisco, are single pilasters on each side which reflect the arched doorway in their ornamentation. The fan-like upward movement of the facade is beautifully balanced by the copper eaves and roof of hand-turned Italian inspired tile. The gracious entrance is flanked by Italian Sforza lamps, and the semi-circular drive emphasizes the curves found on the facade.