Commission approves inclined-lift accessibility fix at 161 Stewart Street with finish review condition

The Historic Preservation Commission approved a major permit to alter for 161 Stewart Street to install an inclined accessibility lift at the Embarcadero entry. Planning staff concluded the proposed self‑supported incline lift meets Article 11 standards because it will be slim in profile, avoid attachment to original historic fabric, and read as a distinct, contemporary intervention. The lift would provide a top and bottom level landing and fold upright when not in use, and it would be stainless steel powder‑coated in a matte black finish to minimize visual intrusion.

Megan Padalecki (Stanton Architecture) described design choices and precedent installations in the city. Commissioners raised questions about corrosion resistance and finish; staff and the sponsor confirmed the lift is stainless steel with a powder‑coat finish and included a condition that the sponsor provide a paint swatch/sample for staff review and approval prior to building or site permit sign-off. The Commission voted unanimously (7–0) to approve the project with that condition.

Next steps: Project sponsor to provide material sample for staff review as required by the condition; Port of San Francisco to review the lower landing and any related sidewalk/dining permits.