Bellaire Tower, perched atop Russian Hill at 1101 Green Street in San Francisco, California, is a remarkable architectural landmark. Known as the "Jewel" of Russian Hill, this 20-story high-rise, built in 1930, is a testament to the architectural prowess of H.C. Baumann, a prolific San Francisco architect responsible for over 400 buildings in the city.
Bellaire Tower stands out as one of the first residential high-rises in San Francisco constructed to comply with new seismic codes established after the devastating 1906 earthquake. This foresight in design allowed the building to withstand the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, showcasing its structural resilience.
The building's design is a blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal. The columns and beams are framed with structural steel, while the floor slabs and exterior walls are made of reinforced concrete. The exterior, spanning 80,000 square feet with 640 windows, is adorned with an Art Deco style, featuring a Portland cement parge finish, ornate columns, and arches. This design not only adds to the building's charm but also its historical significance.
The building's design is a blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal. The columns and beams are framed with structural steel, while the floor slabs and exterior walls are made of reinforced concrete. The exterior, spanning 80,000 square feet with 640 windows, is adorned with an Art Deco style, featuring a Portland cement parge finish, ornate columns, and arches. This design not only adds to the building's charm but also its historical significance. Bellaire Tower has also made its mark in popular culture. It was famously referred to as the “Superman Building” and featured in Armistead Maupin's "Tales of the City" series. The building's visibility from nearby locations, such as 28 Barbary Lane, added to its iconic status in San Francisco's urban landscape.