GARDENER’S PARADISE

When thinking of a quintessential Berkeley House, the image of this elegant 1912 Craftsman is likely to come to mind. A “gardener’s” paradise however, is almost unimaginable. Nestled behind a stately Oak, the wide Craftsman door opens into a warm interior, with redwood trim. As one enters, one is greeted by the beautiful Bay view and long meandering garden below. The Livingroom is anchored by a clinker brick fireplace with redwood built-in shelving and trim. Just off the living room is a solidly built handsome deck and staircase that brings you down to the garden.

To the east is a beautiful dining room, with the same old growth box beams, leaded glass cabinets and wainscoting. Where there is no bay view, there is a sea of green and color – trees and budding flowers are in every lookout.

Through the open doorway, is the modern and spacious chef’s kitchen, with top of the line appliances that blend in with the cabinetry, elegant granite countertops picture windows looking out to the front Zen garden, access through the side door from the kitchen. A ½ bath straddles the space between the outdoors and this floor and more storage cabinets.

Up the grand stairway, midway are French doors that exit to a small balcony overlooking the neighbor’s fairytale garden with a soothing water feature. To the right at the top of the stairs is a large primary bedroom, with dramatic S.F. Bay views and an office or plus space, with built in shelving and additional dreamy bay views. Across the hall is a smaller bedroom, flanked by closets on either side. A large bathroom with separate shower and tub decorated with Italian glass tile sits between the bedrooms.

From the main level down, there is a staircase that goes to a family room, bedroom, bathroom and kitchenette or in-law with separate entrance. This level is framed by the incredible wisteria that edges the windows. There is a laundry and utility room and storage area with additional fridge.

Through the in-law is what can only be described as a gardener’s work of art. The sellers have passionately developed the garden over the years with a fantastic range of plants from all over the world. As you circle this gently downslope yard on the meandering path of flora, you end at a koi pond where you can sit and spend some peaceful time surrounded by exotic, colorful plantings.

This house is spectacular in every way. It has been a happy abode for the sellers for 50 years and they have maintained and updated it throughout, with energy consciousness and efficiency at the top of their concerns. The house has solar panels and a backup battery. How many vintage homes have you come across that score a “10” BESO rating?