Point Loma Hillside

A Modernist Hillside Vantage

Perched on the lofty slopes of Point Loma, this 1945 classic was entirely renovated in 2014 by architect John Ike of Ike Baker Velten. Originally a naval officer’s residence, the structure’s eccentric massing was enhanced to prioritize the "Bonum Vivere" of the California coast. The home serves as a bridge between the historical naval context of the peninsula and a contemporary, high-design sanctuary defined by transparency and light.

The design narrative is one of connection. John Ike stripped the original plan to create a voluminous upper floor, raising ceilings and installing massive windows to ensure the interiors and outdoor decks communicate freely. The aesthetic is characterized by the warmth of hemlock wood, cork flooring, and a vibrant collection of curated art and textiles that reflect the architect’s global travels.

Materiality takes center stage with a custom kitchen paneled entirely in hemlock. The great room features a wall of sliding glass panels, a fireplace, and a chic stand-up bar. Tactile comfort is prioritized through a mix of mid-century modern pieces and custom-made beds, while a lower-level sitting room with floor-to-ceiling glass offers a space for media and relaxation.

The exterior is a series of terraced "rooms" including two expansive decks and two additional patio areas. Guests can dine by the built-in Weber charcoal grill or the separate gas grill. The grounds are lush with orange, lemon, and olive trees, featuring a private jacuzzi spa, a hammock for afternoon rest, and a telescope for observing the parade of ships in the bay.

What we love

We love how this home feels less like a rental and more like you're staying at a design-obsessed friend’s place, where every vintage chair and piece of art has a real story. The great room feels like your own private listening bar where you can pour a drink and head to the telescope to track the ships crossing the harbor while the sun dips behind the hills.

Layout

This vacation home for rent in San Diego sleeps up to 10 guests on two levels, and between four independent master suites. The two main en-suites are on the top floor, with king beds. One has a pull-out sofa (single). There are two bedrooms downstairs, one with a queen, and the other with two singles (which can be joined to form a queen). The latter has a couch that converts to a single bed.

With 4.5 bathrooms, including a primary bath with a soaking tub and walk-in showers, the layout comfortably accommodates varied group dynamics. The half-bath is beside the kitchen.

Experiences

Bookable services through the concierge infrastructure include private chef arrangements or spa treatments on the deck. The proximity to the San Diego Yacht Club and Shelter Island allows for access to private boat charters, kayaking, and deep-sea fishing excursions, all arranged by local partners.

Good to know

The property features staircases both inside and out, which may be challenging for those with limited mobility. There is an ADU on-site occasionally used by the owner. Street parking is ample and non-restrictive. Due to the quiet residential nature of Point Loma, a strict curfew for outdoor areas is enforced after 10:00PM.

Amenities

Spa pool, Subzero refrigerator, Chambers range, Sonos Bluetooth and hard cable, telescope, hammock, two fireplaces, air conditioning, free wifi, office space with printer, outdoor dining, charcoal and gas grills, washer, dryer, dishwasher, hardwood floors with cork floors in the upstairs bedrooms and downstairs, pack 'n' play and high chair if needed

Around

Located in the prestigious Point Loma neighborhood, the home is a 13-minute walk to San Diego Bay and 15 minutes to the San Diego Yacht Club. The cultural hub of Liberty Station, featuring the Rock Church and various artisanal markets, is just over a mile away. The scenic Sunset Cliffs and the beaches of Ocean Beach are within a five-minute drive. Downtown San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter and the San Diego Zoo are reachable in 10 minutes by car.