When approving Landmark status for The Sylvester House in 1973, the Preservation Advisory Board for the City and County of San Francisco cited the significant architectural features and outstanding elements, noting:

“. …that the special character and historical, architectural and aesthetic interest and value of the said Landmark justifying its designation are as follows:

This two story wooden frame structure represents a variation of the Italianate Style. The facade of the house stands high and four square; its main features include and expansive first floor porch, prominent upper story fenestration, and a projecting roof cornice. The front porch spans the entire facade, its roof covering the first floor windows and central front entrance. A row of six wooden Corinthian columns support the ‘dentilated’ porch cornice. A low balustrade encloses the porch to the entryway, which is approached by a wide center staircase. A large archway frames the paneled double door entry and overhead fanlight. The framing is finished in Gothic detailing.

The roof cornice is supported by a row of closely spaced consoles. The roof is low, pitched and sloping to the central ridge.

The fenestration is regular, with double hung arched windows. The framing of the windows is also Gothic. Each of the five upper story windows is flanked by a fluted pilasters and surmounted by a projecting curvilinear pediment. Consoles and ornamental keystones form the base of the pediment.”

The Sylvester House

San Francisco Landmark #61