City plans restoration of fire-damaged building into two dwelling units

In a recent meeting, the San Francisco City Council discussed a significant proposal to transform a vacant, fire-damaged building into two residential units. The site, which has a long history of changing uses since its construction as a single-family home in 1885, is set to undergo a major renovation.

The proposal involves converting the existing residential care facility back into residential use. Specifically, the plan includes restoring the building and reestablishing a single dwelling unit on the first and second floors, while also adding a new two-bedroom unit on the ground floor. The project aims to address the need for housing in the community, particularly as the building has been vacant and in disrepair.

Key improvements will include restoration of fire damage, interior enhancements, facade work, and the addition of a new rear deck. Importantly, the building's footprint and overall massing will remain unchanged, ensuring that the project complies with local zoning regulations. The residential use is permitted in the RH3 zoning district, which supports the transition back to housing.

The building's history reflects a series of changes, from its original use as a single-family home to its subdivision into apartments in the mid-20th century, and later conversion into a residential care facility. The Lorne House, which operated as a care facility until 2015, had expanded its operations without proper permits, highlighting the need for a structured approach to the building's future.

This proposal not only aims to revitalize a long-neglected property but also contributes to the ongoing efforts to increase housing availability in San Francisco. As the city continues to grapple with housing shortages, projects like this one are essential in addressing community needs and enhancing the local living environment.