By Erin Kain By Erin Kain | December 21, 2022 | Home & Real Estate, Feature,
Purchase a piece of San Francisco history. Celebrated designer Ken Fulk's Magic Factory is the city's hottest new listing.
What was once a furniture factory (it also housed Mr. S leather goods) is now design icon Ken Fulk’s Warhol-esque live-and-work space. Known for his rich, bold aesthetic, the design dynamo is responsible for the elevated spaces of myriad private homes across the Bay Area and the world, as well as luxury commercial hospitality spaces like The Battery social club in Jackson Square. However, the bon vivant is perhaps even more famous for his fabulous social life, hosting over-the-top dinner parties for elite celebrity guests—think Stevie Nicks, Jean-Paul Gaultier, Chakka Khan and Dita Von Teese, to name a few—hosted in the top level of his Magic Factory, recently listed on the market for $8.9 million with Compass agents Brian Leung and Jeremy Lee.
The open-concept living space is punctuated by bold colors and decadent furnishings.
The 14,000-square-foot SOMA space consists of four open-concept floors, an expansive outdoor terrace, 11-car surface lot, loading dock and a large freight elevator that services all floors. Built in 1908, the building’s original features abound, from sandblasted brick walls and rows of exposed timber to striking fir flooring and terra-cotta accents, plus industrial steel windows that usher in plenty of natural light.
Fulk’s famous dinner parties hosted the city’s elite.
A stunning spiral staircase connects the second floor to the upstairs abode, but only after passing through a vintage steel-and-glass door cheekily sourced from a state mental institution—Fulk’s idiosyncratic method of separating the craziness of his work and home life.
The building boasts exposed brick and oversize windows.
On the top floor, a swanky 4,000-square-foot residence awaits with 14-foot-high ceilings, a sumptuous full bath and a seriously cozy fireplace. The designer created distinct living areas by layering colors, furniture and art, and although furnishings aren’t included in the asking price, Fulk says he’s open to the possibility of selling them. Another perk? A sprawling 1,200-square-foot outdoor terrace sits behind oversize glass barn doors, highlighting captivating panoramic views of the city. Says Leung, “Ken Fulk and his team have done a masterful job of elevating an iconic landmark for future users.” We couldn’t agree more. 310 Seventh St., 415.278.7838, 310-7thstreet.com
An antique printer’s table acts as a kitchen island, while gothic-style pendant lights add a touch of drama.
Photography by: DOUGLAS FRIEDMAN