A drop dead gorgeous and utterly charming 4++BD/2BA Queen Anne Victorian, 2919 Lorina is a Berkeley historic landmark, completely renovated/rebuilt in 2013 blending many elegant details of the period with stylish modern updates for comfort and convenience. Known as the Rose-Goldsmith House, the home includes a formal dining room, remodeled kitchen with breakfast room, modern baths, and a spacious primary bedroom with a private balcony overlooking the lush rear garden. The expansive second story has been finished and remodeled to house a family room, three bedrooms, and bath - with operable skylights in most rooms. The partially finished basement includes two bonus rooms, and an attached garage provides tandem parking for two cars. Ideally located in South Berkeley - in the neighborhood fondly known as Baja Elmwood - the home is surrounded by an array of delights including the Ashby Arts District, College Avenue’s variety of independent shops and restaurants, the well-loved Berkeley Bowl market, and, for commuters, the Ashby BART.
Built in 1891 by Josiah John Rose, the home includes many Victorian-era touches including ornate ceiling medallions and vintage light fixtures, push-button light switches, picture rails, wainscoting, millwork on door and window frames, and stained glass windows said to be from a church in Scotland.
Antique barrel keys unlock the traditional front door with transom window, opening onto an entryway with a parquet floor and distinctive patterned wallpaper. The living room is embraced by a wide bay window (possible site of a comfy window seat), and a decorative fireplace with rose-patterned tile graces one wall. Double pocket doors open onto the adjacent formal dining room large enough for holiday dinners with extended family and friends.
Anchored by a stone-topped island with breakfast bar and integrated dishwasher, the expansive cook’s kitchen is filled with natural light. Two built-in hutches provide ample storage and open display shelves create space for cookbooks, servingware, or your favorite kitchen collectibles. A wine fridge and LG 5-burner gas range with griddle provide modern convenience, while a wide vintage-style console sink and sash windows with stained glass panels add charm. Off the kitchen, a cheerful breakfast room opens to the back porch and stairs leading down to the inviting rear garden.
Also on this level are a sunny bedroom with wainscoting and angled windows, and a full bath with clawfoot tub and vintage-style console sink. A convenient laundry area includes a stacking washer/dryer, and an under-stair storage area currently serves as a monkey fort. (!)
Upstairs, a second light-filled living space features peaked ceilings following the roofline, oak floors, and skylights in the open family room and all three bedrooms. The primary bedroom includes a large closet and glass door opening onto a private balcony overlooking the gorgeous rear garden and the treetops of the neighborhood beyond. The shared bath features a vintage-style console sink and walk-in shower with decorative tile walls.
The gorgeous rear garden is beautifully landscaped with a lush lawn and mature persimmon and citrus, pear, and plum trees. An organic garden includes raised beds of tomatoes, strawberries, and herbs, and espaliered apple, pear, and plum trees line the fence. An expansive deck with hardscaped seating is perfect for entertaining, and a built-in sandbox and swing will delight any children in your life. A brick pathway leads to the two finished basement spaces - two bonus rooms which might serve as an exercise studio, rumpus room, or home office with privacy for Zoom calls.
This lovely home is centrally located in the vibrant city of Berkeley with its small-town vibe and diverse community. Itself an urban oasis away from the stresses of Silicon Valley, Berkeley also enjoys the relaxed feel of a university town with many small restaurants and shops, as well as varied celebrations, music festivals, street fairs, and art exhibits.
Additional highlights: Owned PV/Solar 6-panel system Operable skylights with solar-powered blinds New foundation Radiant heat Fire sprinklers New roof New exterior paint Attached locking 2-car tandem garage Garden storage area
