51 Ord Street was my most ambitious project to date. Basically, I did everything that I could. Believe it or not, this is a 4000 square foot house, four stories on a lot that is only 27 feet wide by 72 feet long. It is blessed to be in a highly desireable neighborhood with dramatic views of the bay.
I represented myself in the purchase. I designed the project. I drew all the architectural plans and obtained the permits. Was the lead carpenter. Was the general contractor. Did most of the interior design. Put as many windows in as I could. Removed 50 dump trucks of dirt from underneath the house; its on a steep hillside. Brought in over 200 yards of new concrete. It was a effort of strength, determination and endurance.
Probably 155 Clipper Street, below, was a little more artistic for me. I took a bastardized, aluminum box and turned it into an 1880's victorian. I copied a house, detail for detail, about 3 blocks away. The funny thing is that about two years later, the owners of the house 3 blocks away copied my exterior paint job, color for color, exactly.
Jody picked the colors. Lynn added insights and ideas along the way. My in-laws provided much of the financing.
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