Historic Preservation Commission initiates landmark nomination for Takahashi Trading Company at 200 Rhode Island Street

The San Francisco Historic Preservation Commission voted to initiate landmark designation for 200 Rhode Island Street, known as the Takahashi Trading Company, following presentations from planning staff and the property's consultant.

Alex Westoff of the Planning Department told commissioners the nomination was community-sponsored and recommended initiation so staff could later present a resolution for Article 10 landmark designation to the Board of Supervisors. “The item before you is a request to initiate landmark designation for 200 Rhode Island Street, also known as the Takahashi Trading Company,” Westoff said.

Architectural Resources Group historian Stacy Farr summarized the building’s history and architecture, noting the primary portion was built in 1912 and designed by Albert Landsberg. Farr said the property has two periods of significance — 1912 for the building’s construction and 1965–2019 for its association with the Takahashi family — and described the structure’s heavy-timber-and-brick form, later additions, and prominent Takahashi signage.

Public preservation groups voiced support. Dr. Michelle Magalom, representing Asian and Pacific Islander Americans for Historic Preservation, said landmarking the site would help ensure stories tied to Japanese American history are preserved and urged the commission to support the nomination.

Commissioners framed the nomination around both architectural and cultural significance. Commissioner Foley said she was “in wholehearted support” and noted personal familiarity with the building and the family’s cultural contributions. After discussion the commission moved to initiate the designation. Commissioner Johns made the motion to initiate landmark designation; the motion passed unanimously 6–0 (Commission President Matsuda was recused from this item because of a connection to the Henry and Tomae Takahashi Charitable Foundation).

Next steps: if the commission formally initiates designation, department staff said they will return at a future hearing with a resolution recommending Article 10 landmark designation to the Board of Supervisors and continue outreach and documentation work in support of the nomination.