ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Precita House by Ryan Leidner Brings Desert Sensibility to San Francisco Urban Living

architecture-design · 2026-09-18

Architect Ryan Leidner from San Francisco has finalized the Precita House, designed for a family of four. This renovation improves the flow from the public street into the private living spaces and a tranquil garden. Leidner emphasizes 'light as a material,' achieving a blend of comfort with the aesthetics of the desert landscape through economical materials and seamless indoor-outdoor transitions. Communal spaces overlook a garden designed by Stephens Design Studio. The chosen materials feature Douglas Fir and Venetian plaster. Notable elements include a deep green marble kitchen island, a geometric wooden staircase, and a vertically slatted ceiling. This project follows Leidner's High Desert House in Joshua Tree, focusing on spatial clarity and controlled daylight. Wallpaper* published the story, with Ellie Stathaki serving as architecture and environment director.

Key facts

  • Precita House is a residence in San Francisco designed by local architect Ryan Leidner.
  • The project was created for a family of four.
  • It reconfigures the home's transition from street to private interior and rear garden.
  • The garden was designed by Stephens Design Studio.
  • Materials include Douglas Fir cladding and Venetian plaster.
  • Sculptural elements feature a deep green marble kitchen island, geometric timber staircase, and vertically slatted ceiling.
  • Leidner previously designed High Desert House in Joshua Tree.
  • The project was featured on Wallpaper* by Ellie Stathaki.

Entities

Artists

  • Ryan Leidner
  • Ellie Stathaki
  • Tadao Ando
  • Rem Koolhaas
  • Glenn Sestig

Institutions

  • Wallpaper*
  • Stephens Design Studio
  • Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
  • Bartlett School of Architecture
  • Thames & Hudson

Locations

  • San Francisco
  • United States
  • Joshua Tree
  • Greece
  • Thessaloniki
  • London
  • United Kingdom

Sources