A Striking Mixed-Use Building Near San Diego’s Historic Balboa Park Seeks $6.5M

One of San Diego’s urban treasures is undoubtedly its verdant Balboa Park area, which, as a result of the great Panama–California California Pacific International expositions, remains home to many architectural and cultural landmarks, including the San Diego Zoo.

Just a stroll away from there, in the Bankers Hill quarter, a sleek, contemporary home built in 2017 by local firm Safdie Rabines Architects provides a nice contrast to its turn-of-the-century neighbors. The three-story, 7,000-square-foot home includes a ground-floor retail space with a street entrance and shared garage. High ceilings and quality finishes throughout culminate in a two-bedroom, two-bathroom penthouse on the third floor. 

"This property is something special," says listing agent Tommy Crudo of La Jolla-based Willis Allen Real Estate, who describes it as an "urban retreat in a vibrant neighborhood." Inside the home, however, the setting is decidedly private and peaceful. "I personally feel a calming effect from the beautiful interior architecture and large open spaces," Crudo says. 

The project was built with no detail overlooked. Convenient to San Diego's nearby beaches, where drinks and sunset overlooking all of the city are just a few minutes away, it serves as an oasis of seclusion.  

Flexible in use, the units can be individually rented or taken over entirely by one party. Above the ground level, which is currently leased to a personal trainer, is an office space and chef's kitchen that faces 5th Avenue, and could easily be converted into a two-bedroom, one-bathroom condo. 

The two-bedroom, two-bathroom unit in the rear of the second floor features floor-to-ceiling Fleetwood windows that open onto a private balcony, planter boxes full of shade-offering ficus trees, and a built-in bar with a wine refrigerator. 

But, it’s the dual-balcony, 2,800-square-foot penthouse that really steals the show.  Outfitted with towering, built-in walnut cabinets, a colossal walk-in closet, and skylights that drench the space in natural light, it crowns the stylish home.

Custom steel gates and a state-of-the-art security system offer ultimate peace of mind. Crudo says the property is "perfect for someone who prioritizes privacy. It provides the aesthetic of a larger, luxury building, but there are only a few units inside."

Modern on Fifth is currently listed for $6,495,000 through Crudo Real Estate.