Irving Gill Residence, San Diego, California real estate

Irving Gill Residence in San Diego

May 3, 2026

Architects: Irving Gill

Location: next to Balboa Park, Marston Hills, San Diego, Southern California, USA

Photos by Luca Prodi

Historic Irving Gill Residence in San Diego’s Marston Hills Lists for $4.695M

Originally designed in 1905 by pioneering architect Irving Gill, this Mills Act-designated home is an early expression of Prairie Modern design, defined by clean lines and restrained ornamentation. Original details remain intact, including Douglas fir millwork, flush-set baseboards and custom hardware designed by Gill.

Expanded and restored under architect Kim Grant, the residence spans approximately 3,320 square feet with five bedrooms and four bathrooms, blending historic integrity with modern livability. Interiors include a formal living room, private study, light-filled great room and chef’s kitchen with quartzite surfaces, SieMatic cabinetry and Douglas fir flooring, along with a temperature-controlled wine room for more than 500 bottles.

Upstairs, the primary suite features original façade windows, dual walk-in closets, a spa-style bath with freestanding tub and black marble accent wall, and a private terrace overlooking the grounds.

Outdoors, pocketing Weiland doors open to resort-style living designed by Betwixt Design, with terraced gardens, drought-tolerant landscaping and sculptural hardscape. A pool with spa and Baja shelf anchors the yard, complemented by an outdoor shower and expansive lawn.

A detached two-story casita adds flexible living space, while a two-car garage with EV charging completes the offering. Full property details below.

Set adjacent to the iconic Balboa Park on a quiet street that gently culminates at the park’s coveted northwest edge, the 3500 block of Seventh Avenue offers a rare convergence of privacy, walkability, and historic significance within the heart of Marston Hills.

Enclosed within a walled and gated setting, this private luxury compound is positioned along a broad, tree-lined avenue framed by mature jacarandas and a manicured grass parkway, evoking a sense of timeless elegance within a vibrant urban backdrop. Within steps of aristocratic Bankers Hill, the setting offers exceptional walkability and seamless connectivity, while the residence captures serene treetop park views from its distinguished front façade.

Comprising just eight architecturally significant residences, including the iconic Marston House Museum, this intimate enclave is among San Diego’s most storied and revered residential addresses. Defined by estate-scale parcels, enduring architectural pedigree, and lush, enveloping grounds, it is widely regarded as one of the city’s most discreet and prestigious enclaves.

Originally conceived in 1905 by master architect Irving Gill, widely regarded as San Diego’s most prominent and visionary architectural pioneer, this Mills Act-designated residence stands as an early and compelling expression of Prairie Modern design. Predating the Craftsman movement of the 1920s, the home exemplifies Gill’s progressive philosophy, defined by clean lines, restrained ornamentation, and a design ethos far ahead of its time.