For those that treasure the Craftsman living experience, this home stands out above so many others. Located at 1770 Highland Place in the North Berkeley hills, and close to the UC campus, this home has a unique history. It was part of the first residential design by famed Berkeley architect Bernard Maybeck and is dated 1895.
Known as the Keeler House, it was later reconceived as two flats in the 1920s, and later, another unit was created--this is the unit seen above that is now for sale as a condominium. It offers 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom and 1236 sf of living space.
The impressive combination of the living room and dining room into one expansive living space is perfect for gracious living and entertaining.
The living room represents so much that is classic Craftsman style-and a style that continues throughout the residence.
Beginning with a large central fireplace around which the rest of the room and the home is conceived, there are walls of shelving, multiple and varied sized windows, creative nooks, and generous amounts of natural wood throughout. A door to the left leads to an exterior balcony.
Architect Maybeck was one who preferred, and used, redwood for the walls and floors, seen here, creating impressive and compelling overhead beam ceilings.
A different perspective of the dining room reveals the dramatic effect that is achieved by the placement of uniquely designed overhead beams above the kitchen, and the adjacent dining space.
A built in chest to the right with a display shelf adds an extra appeal to the overall effect.
Opposite the dining area is a pleasant seating area that is regularly awash in sunlight from the wall of windows along its far wall. The windows look out over colorful treetop views. A tall built in bookcase awaits displays of art, collectibles or favorite reading materials.
This scene reveals the floorplan that illustrates the ease of movement from one living space to another on the main floor that can be utilized by both guests and residents.
This updated kitchen provides long wooden countertops, a small pantry, a dishwasher, a gas range, and a refrigerator.
The entry hall is welcoming and spacious, and anchored by a wide set of stairs that lead to the second floor. Worthy of note is the unique Asian style newel post.
Atop the stairwell, one enters this exceptional bedroom that continues the house's design concept of creating a perfect combination of warmth and light in a living space.
The distinctive peaked ceiling, with its multiple support beams above, and multiple windows below, creates an almost ecclesiastical effect. Once again, shelving along the left wall offers space for a generously filled bookcase or collectibles gallery.
Not to be missed is this uniquely designed wall unit that includes storage above and below, and a drop down desk in the center. Immediately adjacent, a cozy corner awaits, with views to the trees, and perfect for a lazy afternoon's reading.
This white, bright, bathroom is cheerful and efficient.
At the top of the stairwell is this ingenious workspace that can be adapted to a number of uses that could include an office, or an artist's workspace. Directly ahead, through the open doors, a balcony with views of the Bay area as seen below, can be viewed.
One of the pleasures of living in the East Bay hills is being able to enjoy this marvelous view every day and evening year round.
As this is a condominium, there are some commonly shared spaces. One is this relaxing and private side porch that leads out to the large garden space seen below.
Another commonly shared space is this well established, and inviting back yard with a fountain to the left, and table and chairs for a perfect luncheon.
If this very special home, with all its many delights, is of interest to you, please call me with your questions regarding it at (510) 517-6280. It is being offered for sale for $975.000.
Note: This property is landmarked, and historical documentation is available.
(Listing Courtesy of Annie Walrand of Compass)
Posted by Bruce Wagg on
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