The San Francisco Planning Commission meeting on July 4, 2025, focused on a proposed renovation project at 72 Harper Street, which has sparked significant community concern regarding its potential impact on light and privacy for neighboring properties.

The project, presented by architect Dennis Budd, involves a comprehensive renovation of the existing structure, including a three-story rear addition and the conversion of the garage into an accessory dwelling unit (ADU). Budd emphasized that the design aims to respect the character of the original home while providing necessary updates for its current owners. He noted that the proposed height increase of 7 feet 3 inches remains within the city’s 35-foot height limit and is designed to align with adjacent properties.

However, several neighbors expressed concerns during the public comment period. A resident from 78 Harper Street, Isabel Perdomo Thrupp, voiced support for the neighboring property owners opposing the project, highlighting fears that the increased height would diminish natural light and potentially trigger a wave of renovations among other homes on the block. Thrupp argued that the benefits of the proposed changes, such as higher ceilings and additional storage, do not justify the negative impact on the community.

The discussion also included detailed daylight studies presented by the opposing neighbors, which illustrated a significant reduction in sunlight for key areas of their home, particularly in the kitchen and master bedroom suites. These studies indicated that the proposed addition would block existing skylights and sliding doors, leading to a dramatic decrease in daylight.

In conclusion, while the project aims to modernize a historic home and provide additional housing options, it faces substantial opposition from neighbors concerned about the implications for light, privacy, and the overall aesthetic of the neighborhood. The Planning Commission will need to weigh these community concerns against the project’s compliance with city regulations as they move forward with their decision.