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Commission initiates landmark designation for Cow House at 171 San Marcos Avenue
Summary
The Commission voted unanimously to initiate Article 10 landmark designation for the Cow House at 171 San Marcos Avenue, citing its association with composer Henry Cowell and its architectural significance from 1933–1936; staff will return with a resolution for the Board of Supervisors.
The San Francisco Historic Preservation Commission voted unanimously to initiate landmark designation for the Cow House at 171 San Marcos Avenue in the Forest Hill neighborhood.
Staff presentation: Shanice Ferguson, Department staff, told the Commission the property meets eligibility criteria for initiation, citing the building’s association with composer Henry Cowell and its status as an early modern single-family house designed by Morrow & Morrow. The department recommended initiation to allow further work and a return with a resolution for Article 10 designation to the Board of Supervisors.
Context and significance: Ferguson said the house’s period of significance is 1933–1936 and that it is a rare example of the firm’s influential collaboration. The staff report recommended initiating the designation but noted that certain interior features are ineligible for designation because they are not publicly accessible; the department suggested conservation easements or sensitive interior design if owners pursue protections.
Commission discussion and action: Commissioners praised the scholarship and the story the property tells about modern architecture in San Francisco. Commissioner Pearlman called the nomination “very exciting,” emphasizing the local significance of connecting Henry Cowell’s life and the Morrow & Morrow architectural contribution. The Commission approved initiation by unanimous vote, 6–0, and directed staff to prepare a resolution recommending Article 10 landmark designation to the Board of Supervisors.
Next steps: If the Commission’s initiation is confirmed at a subsequent hearing, staff will return with a resolution recommending Article 10 landmark designation and pursue the administrative steps required under the City’s landmark process.
Public correspondence and opposition: Staff reported no known neighborhood opposition and that the property owner Christine Williamson submitted a letter of support included in the packet.
