Former Getty Oil Heir's San Francisco Penthouse Re-enters Market at $20 Million

The former penthouse of Getty Oil heir William Paul "Billy" Getty in San Francisco's prestigious Russian Hill neighborhood has re-entered the market with an asking price of $19.98 million. This expansive 6,000-square-foot residence, once famously known as "The Cyber Palace," was originally two separate apartments acquired by Getty in the mid-1990s. He then embarked on a three-year collaboration with designers Stephen Weaver and Craig Leavitt to transform them into a singular, industrial-chic masterpiece. Although Getty never resided in the completed property, he sold it fully furnished to broadcasting magnate Charlton Buckley in 1998 for $15 million, setting a new record for the most expensive home sale in San Francisco at that time. After nearly three decades under the careful stewardship of the Buckley family, the meticulously preserved two-bedroom, four-bath dwelling is now available for a new owner to appreciate its unique design and breathtaking vistas.

This remarkable property, listed by Kristin Cashin and Jenn Davis of Christie's International Real Estate Sereno, continues to impress with its distinctive features and prime location. The penthouse boasts hand-tinted concrete slab floors, mohair-covered walls, and retractable fiberglass shoji panels, creating an atmosphere of sophisticated modernity. Further enhancing its allure are 24-karat gold leaf accents, contributing to a sense of opulent luxury. Spanning over 2,000 square feet, the wraparound terraces offer unparalleled panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay, the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the vibrant downtown skyline. Inside, residents can enjoy a grand 18-foot foyer, a spacious living room with a fireplace, a dining area complete with a wet bar and a built-in leather banquette, and a well-appointed kitchen. The corner primary suite provides a walk-in closet and a unique bathroom featuring a vanity crafted from repurposed steel mesh screens, showcasing an innovative blend of elegance and industrial design. The building's amenities, covered by a $10,690-per-month HOA fee, include a 24-hour attended lobby, on-site management, a recently renovated fitness center, and a glass-enclosed heated pool with a retractable roof, ensuring a lifestyle of comfort and convenience.

The Legacy of 'The Cyber Palace'

Once dubbed "The Cyber Palace" by Harper's Bazaar in 1998, this San Francisco penthouse holds a significant place in the city's luxury real estate history. Originally a creative endeavor by Getty Oil heir William Paul "Billy" Getty, the property combined two adjacent units atop the Royal Towers co-op into a singular, avant-garde living space. Despite the extensive three-year design process with Stephen Weaver and Craig Leavitt, Getty chose not to reside in the finished home, instead selling it fully furnished for a then-unprecedented $15 million. This transaction not only set a new benchmark for property values in San Francisco but also underscored the unique appeal and craftsmanship invested in the residence, preserving its distinctive character for nearly three decades under the Buckley family's ownership.

The meticulous transformation of the two apartments into "The Cyber Palace" resulted in a truly unique dwelling, characterized by its industrial-chic aesthetic and high-end finishes. Key design elements include hand-tinted concrete slab floors, mohair-covered walls, and innovative retractable fiberglass shoji panels, all contributing to its distinctive charm. The inclusion of 24-karat gold leaf accents adds a touch of lavishness, complementing the overall sophisticated design. The expansive 6,000-square-foot layout is thoughtfully designed to maximize the breathtaking surroundings, with over 2,000 square feet of wraparound terraces providing sweeping panoramic views. These vistas encompass the stunning San Francisco Bay, the majestic Golden Gate Bridge, the historic Alcatraz, and the glittering downtown skyline, offering an unparalleled living experience. The property's rich history and thoughtful design make it a remarkable offering in the competitive San Francisco luxury market, attracting buyers seeking a residence with both prestige and a story.

Modern Luxury and Panoramic Views

Currently on the market for $19.98 million, the former Getty penthouse exemplifies modern luxury living with its meticulously maintained interiors and unparalleled panoramic views. The residence, located in San Francisco's Russian Hill, offers an exquisite blend of sophisticated design and high-end amenities. A gilded 18-foot foyer, accessible via two key-secured elevators, sets a grand tone upon entry, leading to a spacious living room centered around a cozy fireplace. The layout thoughtfully integrates living and dining spaces, with a dining area featuring an integrated wet bar and a plush, built-in tufted leather banquette, perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying intimate meals. The property's design ensures that its spectacular location is fully utilized, providing residents with breathtaking vistas from almost every vantage point.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the penthouse is equipped with practical and luxurious features designed for an elevated lifestyle. The kitchen, though compact, offers access to a service elevator and a dedicated laundry/storage room, enhancing functionality. The corner primary suite serves as a private sanctuary, complete with a generous walk-in closet and a distinctive bathroom featuring a vanity crafted from repurposed steel mesh screens, a testament to the property's unique design philosophy. Residents also benefit from the Royal Towers co-op's comprehensive amenities, including a 24-hour attended lobby, on-site management, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a heated glass-enclosed pool with a retractable roof, all contributing to an exclusive and comfortable living experience. Despite the San Francisco luxury market seeing new records, such as Laurene Powell Jobs's $70 million mansion purchase, this Russian Hill penthouse retains its allure as a symbol of elegance and historical significance.