Tompkins Stairway Garden Project
A Community Treasure in Bernal Heights
Location: Southeast Bernal Heights, between Nevada and Putnam Streets, San Francisco
The History
From a trash-covered hillside to a vibrant community oasis, the Tompkins Stairway Garden embodies the power of neighborhood action. What began as a grassroots effort by residents determined to reclaim neglected space has blossomed into one of San Francisco’s most celebrated public gardens and artistic stairways.
Through years of dedicated volunteer work, this once-forgotten hillside now features:
- A stunning drought-tolerant garden that blooms year-round
- A colorful tiled stairway designed by local architect Andre Rothblatt
- A peaceful gathering space that builds community connections
- An environmental asset that supports local biodiversity
The Heart of the Garden: Our Mosaic Stairway
The garden’s transformation reached a pivotal moment when its now-iconic tiled stairway was installed. Local architect and Bernal Heights resident Andre Rothblatt designed this artistic centerpiece, creating a stunning zigzag mosaic of vibrant colors that ascends the hillside.
Join the Tompkins Stairway Garden Volunteers!
Rothblatt’s inspiration came from around the world – the “Steps to Peace” created by youth artists in the Syrian town of Deir Ezzor, also known as Deir Atiyah. This cross-cultural connection imbues our neighborhood stairs with deeper meaning, elevating them from mere infrastructure to a symbol of global solidarity and shared humanity.
What could have remained a simple functional passage between streets has instead become the garden’s signature landmark. The colorful tiles catch sunlight throughout the day, guiding visitors upward while visually representing how community efforts can transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. Each step represents our journey toward creating beauty and connection in unexpected places.
Mosaic Steps at the Tompkins Stairway Garden
Why Support Matters
Despite its beauty, the Tompkins Stairway Garden requires ongoing care and commitment. Without regular volunteer maintenance and financial support from donors, this treasured space could quickly return to its former neglected state.
Your involvement directly contributes to:
- Preserving a neighborhood landmark
- Supporting urban biodiversity and environmental health
- Creating community gathering spaces for all ages
- Inspiring similar projects throughout San Francisco
- Building neighborhood resilience and pride
How You Can Help
Volunteer
Join us for our monthly maintenance days, held on the first Saturday of each month from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. No experience is necessary; bring your enthusiasm, and we’ll provide the tools and guidance!
Upcoming volunteer days:
Advocate
- Share our story on social media
- Invite friends to volunteer days
- Attend neighborhood meetings to support green space initiatives
- Document and celebrate our community’s achievements
Recognition and Impact
The Tompkins Stairway Garden is now recognized as one of San Francisco’s most beloved tiled stairways. It is regularly featured during SF Stairway Month and has inspired similar projects throughout the city.
With your support, we can continue to enhance this space and ensure it remains a vibrant community asset for future generations.
The Tompkins Stairway Garden Project partners with the Greening Projects, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.