The expansive picture windows throughout this home extend all the way to the floor. This feature results in a wonderful visual "connectedness" with the outdoors and lets in ample light. Adding to this connectedness is the beautiful ceramic floor, which provides a visual continuity with the concrete walk and the back deck. The philosophy is to bring the outdoors indoors with materials of the earth.

None of the original single-pane glazing exists. To preserve the original architecture of the structure, all the original window frames, constructed of sturdy redwood, were retrofitted with modern, energy-efficient double-pane glass. The result is a visually striking window of a style seldom seen today, representing some of the best architecture of the 1950's.

All of the bedrooms feature "elevated privacy windows," seen in the design of many of the better 50's era homes. Because the windows are elevated to about neck level and above, the bedrooms remain private even when the curtains or blinds are left open and the expansive casement windows are opened to let in the cool evening breeze. Note here that this feature was preserved even in the 1987 master bedroom addition on the second floor.

The front of this expansive estate is surrounded by a lovely ornamental iron and stone fence with an elegant, lighted, double-gated entry. This fence provides not only privacy but also security, even when the gate is left unlocked. Because there is only one way in and one way out, nobody will enter the property unless they know they are welcome.

Along with the iron front fence, the property is surrounded (front and back) with extensive vegetation, including large evergreens. These trees enhance the privacy of the property and blanket noise. This is the serene view through the den window, looking towards Fishinger Road. Note the afternoon sun shining through the foliage, a prominent feature of the landscaping of this property.

Along with the wooded privacy of this property comes the wildlife. All native species have been seen on this property, including occasional deer and a resident mated pair of red-tailed hawks. The back yard is especially relaxing in the evening, when you will see fireflies sparkle and hear frogs calling from the trees. You will also enjoy the fruits of this property, including the Concord grapes from this pretty arbor, and an abundance of apples from two very mature apple trees. The current owner is known for her Christmas gifts of delicious spiced apple preserves.

In the back yard, you will enjoy an enormous, 2343 sf wooden and brick paver patio that is approximately as large as the house itself. On one end is this 8' x 8' hot tub, where you will relax in the dappled, golden sunlight. Surrounded by an additional privacy fence, the hot tub area provides total privacy.

On the other end of the deck is a very large picnic table where you will probably want to eat half of your meals. A movable bar is perfect for throwing large parties. The mercury vapor lamps will brightly illuminate the yard late into the night.

You will want to walk outside during your first rainstorm in this house. The 40" oversized eves of this house provide a magnificent walkway around the home that will keep you dry. Moreover, you can open your windows during any weather for a delightful cross-breeze, without inviting any rain inside. You will especially enjoy the gentle cascade of the rain off of the eve and onto the deck, giving the relaxing effect of a waterfall during heavy downpours.

The wooded lot includes many native species, many of which were transplanted by the current owner, a naturalist. Most of the trees are reaching early maturity. The back yard features a young sycamore that promises to grow into a majestic tree during the next decade. Several enormous maples provide ample shade, and fir trees blanket the property in privacy. The entry area features a magnificent, mature rhododendrum that contributes to a very contemplative atmosphere. As with the other properties in this area, a compost area lies in the back of the yard, where you can recycle your yard debris and lawn clippings to generate rich soil for your gardening. This is accepted practice in the neighborhood. Or if you prefer, you can dump yard waste free of cost at the Roberts Rd. landfill, only minutes away.

Links: To see pictures of any of the above rooms, click on the image above, or click one of these links: