Orchid 
The comprehensive exterior restoration of the city owned George and Anna Marston House Museum and Gardens marks a milestone in the city of San Diego’s preservation efforts of this property. With more than 50 years of wear since its donation to the city and over three decades since its last significant restoration, the iconic 1905 Arts and Crafts home, designed by Irving J. Gill and William S. Hebbard has received a lifeline with a meticulous, historically informed rehabilitation.
Funded by a $1 million State of California grant secured by Assemblymember Chris Ward and administered by the City of San Diego, the project was executed under the stewardship of SOHO (Save Our Heritage Organisation), who operate and manage the site for the city, and by the expert craftsmanship of Spectra Company. From brick repointing to the restoration of hidden original sliding doors in the carriage house, each phase honors preservation best practices and showcases a high level of technical precision.
The project addressed extensive deterioration caused by time, weather, neglect, and vandalism, including rebuilding garden walls, restoring delicate woodwork and trim across 65 windows and 19 doors, and reviving the character-defining garden gate, terrace, and incinerator. SOHO’s oversight ensured that 100% of grant funds were applied directly to the physical restoration, as they absorbed all soft costs to maximize public benefit.
This restoration reaffirms the Marston House’s role as a communal anchor on the edge of Balboa Park. It celebrates San Diego’s civic legacy, renews one of its most cherished cultural assets, and ensures that this architectural treasure will continue to educate and inspire for generations to come.
Wonderful historic design and great restoration. While some efforts may have been obvious, like repointing the brickwork, just waiting for a budget, others like locating, exposing, and the conservation/restoration of the original carriage house doors were unexpected! As the first entry portal for museum guests they are an important focal point! The entire site looks its best, and, as important, it ready to stand safe for the next decades. Sealing the envelope “looks nice” (which it certainly does) but also has important ramifications maintenance wise. This partnership of SOHO and the City of San Diego, along with the State of California, meets the highest standards of stewardship for a significant historic property!
Wonderful restoration at this iconic Arts and Crafts mansion.
I recently went to the Marston house on a tour. It was a wonderful experience. Seeing the amount of effort and care that went into the restoration was a highlight of my tour. I highly recommend anyone visiting the area stop by and experience this iconic landmark.
This truly is a San Diego masterpiece.
My vote, Marston House Museum
A great restoration project! Thanks SOHO!!
Wonderful to see the Marston house ready for its next 120 years.