929 Oxford St, Berkeley, CA, 94707

Rustic Grande Dame with Modern Allure. Old-growth redwood paneling and beams the size of tree trunks are luxuries of a world gone by. Such grandeur was preserved while significant renovations and an open floor plan reveal a modern life’s dream. Initially designed in 1913 by John H. Willis, an architect for the Peake-Munro Company, the lavish construction of the time still translates well today. A grand entry of multi-light windows and large-scale ebony slate floors announce the abundant use of opulent materials. Stones of the exterior rock wall are framed in rough-hewn trees to create the grand fireplace that anchors the living room. The interior is married to the environment through the use of natural materials and an intentional connection to the outdoors. A series of French doors connect the yard to the kitchen and voluminous family room. Each bedroom is graced by an enclosed sleeping porch or outdoor deck. Recent renovations embraced this inspiration. The stove surround tucks into existing wood beams and carries a tree motif. The main-level shower is surrounded by wood-look tile and green glass is installed to evoke the zen nature of a bamboo forest. Upstairs the new bath is designed as a garden room with birds of paradise wallpaper and verdant greens.