Yerba Buena Island, a ‘secret’ island of parks, open green spaces and beachfront, offers one of the most spectacular views across the San Francisco Bay. The rugged terrain and unique topography of the naturally formed Yerba Buena Island create an unparalleled opportunity for a luxurious green lifestyle.
Yerba Buena was the original name of the settlement that became known as San Francisco in the 1800s. It’s also the name of a native herb that is abundant in the landscape.
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Outdoor amenities at Yerba Buena Island include the Hilltop Park, designed by Hood Design Studio and situated at the highest point of the island with 360-degree views of the Bay. The park showcases the steel “Point of Infinity” sculpture by renowned artist Hiroshi Sugimoto.
A collection of remarkable LEED-certified homes is now for sale on the 72-acre island. The 266 contemporary-yet-timeless residences feature intentional environmental design by Hart Howerton, Meyer Davis and Aidlin Darling.
Most covetable are The Courtyard Townhomes. These luxury units feature private interior courtyards that define the residences and foster a daily connection to nature. Each three- or four-level townhome includes a dedicated entrance, attached garage and several private balconies to embrace indoor-outdoor living. The design of the townhomes follows the structure of the island’s hillsides.
The Flats are private, single-floor residences within boutique buildings with dramatic vistas. Interiors open to expansive terraces across the 2,500- to 4,000-square-foot, two- to four-bedroom floor plans, all with sweeping views of the Bay. Living spaces showcase elegant finishes and grand windows. Each home is serviced by a private elevator, and the sleek interior design complements these spacious, single-level residences.
The Bristol is a six-story, GreenPoint Rated condominium building perched on a forested hilltop. It offers 124 modern residences with views of Clipper Cove and the eastern span of the Bay Bridge. Edmonds + Lee Architects created sustainable, interior designs that look out to a landscaped, open-air inner courtyard. Floor-to-ceiling windows maximize natural lighting. Communal amenities, including a fitness studio, children’s play room, viewing terraces, lounge areas and a rooftop deck with sweeping views of the Bay are included.
Protected areas of the island’s sandy beachfront invite calm waters for paddle-boarding and kayaking. Furry friends are even catered to and can play in a scenic, off-leash dog park at the center of the island.
“Yerba Buena Island allows residents to experience San Francisco from a new perspective, in the manner in which it’s meant to be lived — with lush nature at your doorstep, a like-minded community, and access to the best of island and city life in one of the most spectacular settings,” said Chris Meany, partner at developer Wilson Meany.
Certainly, with so many urban dwellers considering a move to the countryside, this unique development could turn the heads of those looking for a home that offers a near-to-nature living experience in one of the world’s most beautiful urban locations. But of course, such prime real estate won’t come cheap. The lowest rates for studios start at $800,000, with most residences on Yerba Buena Island selling for millions.
Images via Yerba Buena Island
