Forest Hills Extension: A Thoughtful Expansion of San Francisco’s “Residential Park” Vision

Forest Hills Extension, adjacent to the original Forest Hill neighborhood, carries forward the early 20th-century vision of creating tranquil “residential parks” within San Francisco. When the city’s population boomed following the 1906 earthquake, planners and developers saw opportunities to expand on the success of Forest Hill’s curving streets, tree-lined medians, and cohesive architectural styles. Thus, Forest Hills Extension was born, offering additional lots that embraced similar design principles: preserving natural topography, nurturing landscaping, and encouraging harmony between homes and the surrounding environment.

Many of the houses in Forest Hills Extension reflect the same Arts & Crafts, Spanish Colonial, and Storybook Revival influences found in its older neighbor. A blend of single-family residences and smaller multi-unit buildings grace the rolling terrain, often showcasing bay views or glimpses of Twin Peaks. Over time, homeowners’ associations and community groups have continued to protect the neighborhood’s unique character, ensuring that new construction remains sympathetic to the area’s aesthetic traditions. Although it feels tucked away from downtown bustle, Forest Hills Extension benefits from relatively easy access to transit lines and major thoroughfares, striking a balance between suburban calm and urban convenience. Here, residents and visitors alike can experience the enduring appeal of San Francisco’s early “residential park” philosophy, nestled within a modern cityscape.