Phelan Building

The Phelan Building rises 11 stories at the intersection of Market Street and O'Farrell Street with its distinctive triangular shape. The structure combines ground-level retail spaces with office floors above, served by nine elevators throughout the building.

James D. Phelan commissioned architects William and Alexander Curlett to design this building after the 1906 earthquake, and it was completed in September 1908. The structure represented the city's recovery and growth in the years following the disaster.

The building served as a center for jewelry businesses and education throughout the 20th century, housing jewelers and a specialized school. This role shaped how people used the space and the character of the place for many decades.

Public access is limited to ground-level retail stores and business visitors with proper permission. The nine elevators provide good access throughout the office floors for those authorized to enter.

The penthouse once featured a rooftop garden where James D. Phelan received guests, but was later converted into a photography studio. This transformation shows how the building's uses changed over time.

Inception: 1908

Architects: William and Alexander Curlett

Floors above the ground: 11

Elevators: 9

GPS coordinates: 37.78658,-122.40550

Latest update: December 10, 2025 15:47