In 1965, the young family of lumber business scion and CEO George “Fritz” Jewett and his wife Lucy made a significant move from Idaho to the Bay Area, ultimately calling the forested Marin County hamlet of Ross their home. Two decades later, they settled in a custom-built mansion at 2990 Broadway in Pacific Heights, San Francisco. Now, with Lucy Jewett’s recent passing in late 2023 at the age of 94 (Fritz passed away in 2008), this opulent estate is listed for a staggering $38 million, making it the priciest property currently on the market in San Francisco.
Spanning over 10,000 square feet and spread across three stories, this grand residence is situated on a sloping parcel at the end of what is often referred to in real estate circles as “Billionaires Row”—a prestigious stretch of rarefied residential pavement. The mansion offers spine-stiffening views, including the iconic domed roof of the Palace of Fine Arts, Alcatraz Island, and the majestic Golden Gate Bridge. It features six bathrooms, three powder rooms, and four bedrooms, with one powder room discreetly located in the six-plus-vehicle basement garage that also boasts a car wash area. The listing for this spectacular property is managed by Stacey Caen and Joe Lucier from Sotheby’s International Realty – San Francisco Brokerage.
The Wall Street Journal, which was the first to report on the listing, notes that the Jewetts were known for their extravagant social events. They regularly entertained an elite cadre of guests that included not only the city’s upper crust but also influential politicians and dignitaries from around the globe. Esteemed personalities such as George H.W. Bush, Nancy Pelosi, and Prince Philip, consort of Queen Elizabeth II, were frequent visitors. The house was designed not merely as a home but as a venue for gracious and grand entertaining.
Both George “Fritz” and Lucy Jewett were well-regarded as philanthropists and ardent supporters of the arts.
. Fritz’s enthusiasm for yachting and sailing culminated in his and Lucy’s induction into the America’s Cup Hall of Fame in 2005. Lucy, in particular, was a strong advocate for the arts and began serving on the board of the San Francisco Ballet as early as 1969.
Architecturally, the Jewett mansion is a post-modern interpretation of a beloved San Francisco feature—the curvy, bay window. The design champions the fluid elegance of San Francisco’s Victorian-era buildings but eschews excessive embellishment, opting instead for rhythmic repetition with large, semicircular bay windows.
Upon entering the protected courtyard entrance, guests are greeted by an octagonal entry vestibule leading to an expansive gallery with towering arched windows that overlook a serene courtyard garden. The circular hall that follows features a marble floor inset with a compass design and a striking curved staircase adorned with Lucite banisters.
The main floor offers various luxurious spaces: a cozy sitting room, an expansive step-down living room with a grand fireplace, and a 500-square-foot corner dining room that boasts not one but two circular bays. Guests can enjoy beverages from a well-stocked wet bar located conveniently between these elegant rooms.
The second and third floors maintain the home’s lavish theme with beautifully appointed bedrooms and additional living spaces. Detailed woodwork, high ceilings, and generously sized windows contribute natural light and warmth, making each room inviting and grand.
In all its grandeur, the Jewett mansion stands as more than just a home; it is a legacy and a symbol of a lifestyle defined by luxury, social prominence, and cultural philanthropy. This historic residence not only offers an unmatched living experience but also serves as a testament to the timeless elegance and importance of thoughtful, intentional design.
As the most expensive property currently available for sale in San Francisco, the Jewett mansion at 2990 Broadway continues to capture the intrigue and admiration of potential buyers and real estate aficionados alike. Whether viewed as an investment or a primary residence, it provides a rare opportunity to own a piece of San Francisco history, complete with unparalleled views and unmatched luxury.
