When constructed in 1959, the luxury apartment building at 3200 Sixth Avenue across the street from Balboa Park was an example of Southern California post-war architecture — floor-to-ceiling windows in most of the 31 units, no baseboards, crown moldings or door trims, eight-foot doors, terrazzo flooring and glass tile and copper flashing. Those features are being retained and new elements added in Del Mar Heritage’s restoration of the building as for-sale condominiums, scheduled for completion by the end of the year.

The apartment building was commissioned by Col. Irving Salomon, ambassador to the United Nations during the Eisenhower administration, whose family lived in the 2,500-square-foot penthouse for 40 years. The design was by San Diego architect Henry Hester. Mabie & Mintz was the contractor.

“From the amazing park views to the penthouse, this building is absolutely incredible,” says Rudy Medina, president of Del Mar Heritage and project supervisor for 3200 Sixth Avenue. “At Del Mar Heritage we could not resist the opportunity to be a part of the restoration of this historic building, bringing it back to its original beauty.”

Residences range from 800 to 1,400 square feet and much of the original interior decor remains, including white glass pendant lights in the kitchens and baths, “lazy Susan” kitchen cupboards, built-in drawers and vanities. Modern conveniences have been integrated into the building such as rooftop heating and cooling systems, washers/dryers, plumbing fixtures and electrical controls. Model units furnished by Boomerang for Modern, a home boutique in Little Italy, are finished.

Carolyn LaFrance of McGeough LaFrance Architects is the project manager for the renovation. Assisting in the design is Bryan Forward of Forward Design Group, a consultant specializing in mid-20th century restorations.

The penthouse, one-, two- and three-bedroom units will be ready for move-in by the end of January. The residences will start in the $500,000s. The penthouse will be sold by sealed bid with a minimum of $2 million. Del Mar Heritage has pledged to take 10 percent of the amount over the minimum bid and donate half to the Save Our Heritage Organisation and half to Habitat for Humanity.

For more information, contact Del Mar Heritage at (619) 296-0028 or visit delmarheritage.com.