The John McMullen House is an impressive Queen Anne structure important as an example of the evolution of domestic architecture in San Francisco in the late 19th century. A simple early Victorian was converted by noted architect Samuel Newsom into a elegant tower house, with a multi-faceted roofline and fanciful decorative elements.

These alterations coincided with the increased prosperity and prominence of the owner, John McMullen. His obituary noted that "McMullen's history is the history of contracting in the West" (SF Chronicle, August 30, 1921).

Adapted from San Francisco Planning Commission Resolution 8751, October 16, 1980.

For more about John McMullen and Samuel Newsom see National Register Listing #83001231.