Neighbors oppose major expansion of home on Treat Avenue in San Francisco

The San Francisco Planning Commission convened on July 4, 2025, to discuss a discretionary review request concerning a proposed building permit for a significant addition to a single-family residence at 1603 Treat Avenue. The project, initiated by the new owners, aims to expand the existing two-story home by adding a horizontal extension at the rear, which has raised concerns among neighboring residents regarding its impact on the character and scale of the neighborhood.

The primary speaker, Elizabeth Wright, who resides at 1605 Treat Avenue, expressed her apprehensions about the proposed addition, arguing that it would disrupt the mid-block open space and create a "boxed in" feeling for adjacent homes. Wright proposed limiting the depth of the new addition to align with the existing structures, emphasizing that such adjustments would help maintain the neighborhood's scale and character.

In contrast, the project architect, Bill Guan, defended the proposal, stating that it complies with all relevant planning codes and guidelines. He highlighted that the design had undergone multiple revisions based on community feedback, including the removal of roof decks and adjustments to the addition's depth. Guan asserted that the project would not obstruct views or significantly alter the neighborhood's aesthetic.

Public comments reflected a mix of support and opposition. Some neighbors voiced concerns about the potential for gentrification and the impact of the expansion on the established community. Others, including representatives from the Affordable Housing Alliance, argued that the proposed changes could help accommodate the evolving demographics of the area while preserving the mid-block open space.

The commission ultimately closed the public hearing, with discussions indicating a need for further clarification on the project's compliance with design guidelines. The outcome of the meeting remains pending as the commission deliberates on the discretionary review request, weighing the concerns of the community against the proposed development's adherence to planning regulations.