The story of 36-52 Calhoun Terrace in San Francisco is as unique as the city itself. This cliffside apartment building carved into the bedrock of Telegraph Hill, has a history that intertwines with some of the city’s most notable moments and figures. Now, after decades, it’s on the market for $8 million, offering a rare glimpse into San Francisco’s past.
The building’s origins trace back to the illegal explosions of politically connected quarrymen, the Gray brothers, who inadvertently created the perfect perch for this 11-unit apartment complex. Despite its unassuming street facade, the building’s rear reveals an impressive feat of engineering, built in 1938 and nestled into a sheer cliff. This architectural marvel would be nearly impossible to replicate today due to modern building and safety requirements.
The Grays’ Legacy and the Birth of a Neighborhood
The Grays’ quarrying operations left an indelible mark on San Francisco. Their illegal explosions caused boulders to rain down onto homes, knocking some off their foundations. The brothers were so despised that when one was shot and killed by a desperate quarry worker in 1914, the shooter was acquitted on grounds of temporary insanity and cheered by 100 supporters. The boulders they blasted were turned into ballast for ships, with some ending up as streetscapes in cities around the world.
In 1938, Ian and Rose Hoeffler created the Calhoun complex, which would soon become home to some of the 20th century’s most influential artists. Among their first tenants were Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo, who moved in during a period of reconciliation in their tumultuous relationship. Rivera was in San Francisco to paint a mural on Treasure Island for the 1940 Golden Gate International Exposition. The couple remarried at San Francisco City Hall on December 8, 1940, and moved from the apartment shortly after Rivera completed his commission.
From Artistic Haven to Film Noir Set
The apartment building gained further notoriety when it served as a set for the 1952 film noir The Sniper. The film, which was nominated for an Academy Award for writing, features several scenes shot in and around the building, including one where cops use a bedroom as a command post. Author Gary Kamiya, who moved into the building in 2026, notes that the film offers a fascinating glimpse into the building’s past.
Kamiya’s apartment, with its floating in air views from the deck, has become a testament to the city’s history. From his vantage point, he can see the bay as a working port and observe the urban landscape’s diverse wildlife, including coyotes and the city’s official animal, the parrots.
A Unique Living Experience
The building’s quirky floor plans and narrow spaces might not appeal to everyone. The kitchen in Kamiya’s 600-square-foot apartment is so narrow that he and his girlfriend can barely fit in it at the same time, yet it boasts two ovens. The bathroom is accessible only through the bedroom, and there’s no guest room for visiting family. Despite these drawbacks, the bay views and the building’s unique history keep the apartments filled with tenants.
The building is fully rented, with no tenant pre-dating 2026. The asking price of $8 million includes 11 apartments totaling 7,500 square feet. While the building may not offer modern amenities like parking, its historical significance and stunning views make it a unique offering in San Francisco’s competitive real estate market.