First imagined almost 100 years ago by the preeminent architect Walter Steilberg, this extraordinary 4BD/3.5BA Spanish estate has been meticulously restored and sumptuously elevated, melding old-word elegance with modern comfort. The exquisite 4154 SQFT manse enjoys a coveted location in the Berkeley Hills with a membership in the San Luis Court Homes Association’s swimming pool, tennis, pickleball, basketball court, and picnic area. Walter Steilberg was both Julia Morgan’s protege and structural engineer, and this refined mansion harkens back to a bygone era of early 20th century Hollywood glamour and luxury. Even the extensive grounds of almost ⅓ of an acre have an impressive pedigree having been designed by renowned landscape architect, Thomas Church.
From the steps of the classic foyer, rich architectural details and genteel contemporary amenities surround you. The long public hallway boasts a series of arches and classic black and white diamond tiling, while the adjacent oversized mudroom features wainscotting, a laundry area with sink, storage, exterior access, and a Dutch door. The nearby powder room has a stunning marble sink along with stylish brass water and lighting fixtures that are found throughout the house.
The home’s great room is not to be missed with its vaulted and beamed ceiling, multiple chandeliers, sconces, leaded glass windows, giant bay window, and three sets of French doors out to the expansive garden. Here you can entertain friends by the massive fireplace, or open the doors for indoor/outdoor living. Access to the wonderful grounds through French doors continues throughout the lower floor, embracing a true California lifestyle.
No detail was overlooked in the renovation of the main living area including an eat-in kitchen, den, and butler’s pantry that are inviting, yet luxurious. The chef's kitchen boasts top-of-the-line appliances, a double full-size refrigerator/freezer, and marble counters and backsplashes, with a butler’s pantry echoing the design and finishes of the kitchen. Enjoy cooking in the kitchen while friends and family gather around the large seated island, eat at the banquet, relax in the den area with its built-in bookcases, or step outside onto the sunny patio. The adjacent formal dining room features a classic toile wallpaper and three more sets of French doors to make the outdoors part of the home. Beyond your own spacious lawn and gardens for relaxation and play, stroll to the nearby neighborhood association’s private pool, courts, picnic tables, and stone fire pit.
Upstairs find four bedrooms, two of which have exquisitely designed ensuite baths and a third full bath is available in the hall. A fifth bedroom was converted to a fabulous dressing room for the palatial primary suite. The primary bedroom is a refuge from the hectic world and includes French doors onto a balcony overlooking the garden and a spa-like split bath, offering an amazing shower and tub wet room and a double marble vanity.
The two-car garage and short drive to BART make for an easy commute. World-class food, academia, shopping and parks are nearby – the communal backdrop for an extraordinary life at 1998 San Antonio Avenue, Berkeley.
