Side-facing divided staircases lead to the main floor, which is sheltered on three sides by an ornate porch, supported by fluted columns with iron Corinthian capitals.

It has deeply overhanging decorative cornice, which in profile gives the house a styling called "Steamboat Gothic".

The interior is also richly decorated, with paintings attributed to New Orleans artist Dominique Canova on ceiling and door panels.

[3] The house is traditionally ascribed a construction date of 1853–1856, and may include elements of an older building.

[3] The unusual name “San Francisco” is believed to be derived from Edmond's oldest surviving son, Valsin's comment about the extraordinary debt he was confronted with when taking over the estate.