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San Francisco Magazine

April 7, 2025

The Flats At Yerba Buena Island Debut This Spring

By Michael McCarthy

The Flats at Yerba Buena Island bring estate living to a gorgeous San Francisco enclave.

San Francisco has a new jewel minutes from downtown. The Flats at Yerba Buena Island sit atop the island’s highest residential point. This exclusive collection of homes redefines luxury urban living, blending breathtaking natural beauty with modern sophistication. Just an eight-minute ferry ride from downtown, the development offers a rare opportunity to experience island serenity while remaining connected to the city’s vibrancy.

ELEVATED LIVING
Designed by renowned architecture firm Hart Howerton, in collaboration with BDE and Meyer Davis, The Flats present a masterfully crafted residential experience. This limited collection of just 14 estate-sized, single-level homes reside in two boutique buildings, each featuring a full-floor penthouse and six half-floor residences. Every home boasts private garage parking, direct elevator access and expansive terraces that frame sweeping panoramic views of San Francisco’s most celebrated landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Angel Island and the Marin Headlands.
With three- and four-bedroom layouts ranging from 2,500 to 4,200 square feet, The Flats embody the quintessential California lifestyle, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living. Floor-to-ceiling windows bathe each home in natural light, while Juliet balconies off the bedrooms and fireplaces in every living room create an atmosphere of warmth and elegance.

EXQUISITE INTERIORS
Inspired by gourmet chefs’ needs, the kitchens feature custom SCIC Italia cabinetry, natural stone countertops and high-end Dornbracht fixtures. Fully integrated Sub-Zero refrigerators, Wolf gas cooktops and wine refrigerators ensure every culinary experience is a delight. Meanwhile, spa-inspired bathrooms offer a retreat-like ambiance, with rain showers, honed marble finishes and Dornbracht fixtures enhancing the sense of tranquility.
“The Flats are a contemporary interpretation of San Francisco’s historic grand estates, reimagined for modern living,” says Tim Slattery, partner at Hart Howerton. “With The Bristol and The Row Homes now complete, The Flats add to the feeling of a refined European seaside village, perched above one of the most spectacular bays in the world.”

SUSTAINABILITY AND WELLNESS
Sustainability is at the core of Yerba Buena Island’s development vision. Each residence at The Flats is LEED-certified, with solar panels integrated into the design to enhance energy efficiency. Beyond the homes, the island’s commitment to environmental stewardship is evident in its expansive green spaces, including 72 acres of parks and 5 miles of scenic trails.

Residents also enjoy access to world-class amenities, including the exclusive facilities at The Bristol, featuring a grand open-air lobby, a rooftop terrace with stunning city views and a state-of-the-art fitness center. Clipper Cove’s beachfront provides opportunities to paddleboard, kayak or simply relax on the waterfront.
With sales launching this spring, The Flats at Yerba Buena Island offer a rare opportunity in the city’s competitive real estate market. Starting in the low $3 million range, the residences cater to discerning buyers seeking privacy, exclusivity and a harmonious balance between nature and urban living.

“For those looking for a sanctuary that still offers direct access to the heart of the city, The Flats represent a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” says John Pallante, managing director at Compass Development Marketing Group. “This is more than just a home—it’s a lifestyle defined by beauty, connection and a deep sense of place.” Interested buyers are encouraged to register at yerbabuenaislandsf.com for updates and more details, 415.851.3000.