San Francisco, CA — In a delightful twist of real estate fate, the iconic former home of the late, great Robin Williams, nestled in the heart of San Francisco’s Sea Cliff neighborhood, has hit the market with an astonishing price tag of $25 million. This stately residence, brimming with whimsical charm, comes complete with secret rooms and hidden passageways designed with the comedian’s children in mind.
A Legacy of Laughter
The tale of this captivating Sea Cliff gem began in 1991 when the beloved actor and comedian, Robin Williams, and his then-wife, Marsha Garces Williams, acquired the property for a modest $3.2 million, as revealed by the Wall Street Journal. It was the same year when Williams left audiences worldwide in stitches with his portrayal of Peter Banning in “Hook,” solidifying his stature in cinematic history.
Interestingly, Williams’ connection to the Bay Area dates back to his teenage years, a little-known fact shared in the 2018 book, “Robin.”
The Heart of the Home
After a whirlwind romance, the couple tied the knot in 1989, only to part ways in 2010. When the dust settled, Marsha Williams became the proud owner of this remarkable home. With their children all grown up, she’s made the decision to downsize.
“It’s a beautiful, happy house,” Marsha told the Journal, reminiscing about the years of joy and laughter they shared under its roof. “We had many, many fantastic years of fun and play and joy here.”
A Mansion with Character
Situated behind imposing gates and fortified walls, this corner-lot mansion stands as an architectural masterpiece. Originally constructed around 1926, it was owned by Oliver J. Olson, a fascinating historical tidbit unearthed in the 2014 book, “The Liberty Ships of World War II.”
The Italian Renaissance-style structure sprawls over approximately 10,600 square feet across three levels, offering enchanting views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the Marin Headlands, and the breathtaking expanse of San Francisco Bay.
“Marsha and Robin Williams took the house down to the studs and rebuilt it in the early nineties, updating all the major systems,” explained Compass agent Steven Mavromihalis. “They expanded the home to its current 10,598 square feet on three levels. However, they took great pains to preserve the rare and valuable building materials used in 1926, which are simply no longer available in the construction of modern homes.”
The work included preserving original elements such as woodwork, moldings, and ornate ironwork. The angled wooden beams over the main staircase stand as a testament to their dedication to maintaining the property’s character. Critical Ladybug Populations Are on the Rise: Here’s Why
Whimsy in Every Corner
What truly sets this home apart is the whimsy infused into every nook and cranny. Above the main entrance, flanked by majestic stone columns, the couple added cast-stone Comedy and Tragedy masks, reflecting the duality of life in true Robin Williams fashion.
Hidden passageways connect the children’s bedrooms, a Prohibition-era-style bar concealed behind a wall in the media room, and a drop-down projector for cinematic experiences in the same room. Outdoors, metal gargoyles — iguanas and turtles — appear to come to life as they crawl along the house’s facade.
Luxury and Comfort
This six-bedroom marvel includes a primary suite complete with a Japanese-themed bathroom, featuring a raised soaking tub. For guests or extended family, there’s a separate one-bedroom guest apartment with a private entrance. The home also hosts a library and a media room, both boasting French doors that lead to the outdoor splendor. Wine connoisseurs will be delighted by the wine cellar, while the pantry and walk-in vault offer a touch of luxury. Multiple storage rooms and cedar-lined closets are a homeowner’s dream. Outside, several patios and a loggia reveal breathtaking views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.
Despite a recent lull in San Francisco’s luxury real estate market due to climbing interest rates, there’s been a flurry of activity in the past few weeks. According to Mavromihalis, “The market had so much inventory that everybody was frozen. All of a sudden, a number of properties have gone into contract.”
Robin Williams, who made a name for himself through stand-up comedy before transitioning to the silver screen with iconic roles in “Patch Adams” and “Aladdin,” is immortalized as a four-time Oscar nominee and a Best Supporting Actor winner for his performance in “Good Will Hunting.”
In conclusion, this San Francisco mansion not only stands as a piece of cinematic history but also as a testament to the laughter and joy that once filled its walls. As it seeks a new owner, this unique property promises to continue bringing happiness to those fortunate enough to call it home.
