Located in the vibrant Grand Lake/Rose Garden neighborhood, 553 Kenmore Avenue is a dramatic, light-filled 3BD/2BA 1850 sq ft Modern remodeled by UXO Architects with myriad custom upgrades. From the expanse of custom floor-to-ceiling windows at the front of the house to the distinctive pendant light fixtures throughout and the Richelieu hardware in the kitchen, every detail of the remodel has been thoughtfully chosen. The result is a sophisticated home with an open floor plan, gourmet chef’s kitchen with custom touches, distinctive pendant light fixtures, custom millwork accents, sun tunnel skylights, and expansive terraced back garden. In close proximity to sought-after Crocker Highlands schools, and just steps from Grand and Lakeshore Avenue Shops and restaurants, this splendid home is ideally situated moments from Lake Merritt, Grand Lake Theater, the weekly farmers market at Splash Pad Park, and the 5,000 rose bushes at the 7-acre Morcom Rose Garden.
At the front of the home, the polished plank-style white oak front door opens onto a spacious foyer in the well of a stunning two-story tower of dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows beneath a modern Moooi chandelier. The dual-paned custom awning and casement windows are framed by locally-sourced hardwood, and are completely operational to catch the summer breezes as well as the warm sunlight.
On this level is a spacious bedroom that could be configured as a ground-floor owner’s suite, guest suite, office, or media room. Custom cabinetry surrounds a space-saving Murphy bed, and an oversized casement/picture window combination with custom blinds overlooks the quiet front garden. On one wall an ingenious media system within a custom walnut credenza integrates television and other media components, and a matching built-in walnut desk with floating shelves and inset LED lighting create a cozy study nook. The adjacent full bath features a large format tile floor, a glass-enclosed tile walk-in shower, and stone-topped vanity with ample storage space.
The lovely white oak staircase leads past dramatic windows to the main level and heart of the home. On the north side is the spacious living room featuring oak floors, recessed lighting, and a brick fireplace flanked by windows. An expansive wall of glass offers breathtaking views of the hills below. Double sliding doors lead to a shaded ipe wood deck, ideal for hosting a cocktail party for friends, or just taking in the magnificent view of the sun setting over the trees.
Floor-to-ceiling bookshelves separate the living room from the completely remodeled eat-in chef’s kitchen. Anchored by an expansive stone-topped island/breakfast bar illuminated by iconic Hay Danish pendant lights, the kitchen features eco-friendly Marmoleum floors, stone countertops, and designer tile backsplash flooded with light through an oversized window above the large granite sink. The discerning home chef will appreciate the Fischer Paykel wall oven, 5-burner professional gas cooktop and hood, as well as the custom pantry providing ample space for the most well-stocked kitchen. The integrated paneled Fischer Paykel refrigerator, Bosch dishwasher, and custom cabinetry create a sleek modern aesthetic.
The kitchen extends into the open dining room featuring two sun tunnel skylights, custom-designed bespoke wallpaper, Normann Copenhagen Danish pendant light, Sonneman dining sconces, and custom white oak floating bench seating. French doors open onto a beautiful back patio that runs the length of the house.
Down the hallway, the expansive, light-filled owner’s bedroom features gleaming oak floors, a distinctive Nelson Ball Bubble pendant light fixture, and custom Elfa closets. An oversized custom oak-framed picture/casement window overlooks the beautiful backyard, and a double awning window on the adjoining wall catches the summer breeze. The second bedroom also features a large window overlooking the backyard and Elfa closet with ample storage.
The spacious shared bath is lit by a wide awning window and sun tunnel skylight and features a beautifully tiled shower over tub and a generous stone-topped vanity with vessel sink.
Conveniently located on the same floor as the bedrooms is a laundry enclosure with stacking high-efficiency front-loading washer and dryer.
The expansive back patio runs the length of the house with plenty of room to host a summer luncheon or barbecue for family and friends. Above the patio is a gorgeously terraced garden with a plant-lined path leading to a second patio hardscaped with bench seating and raised planting boxes, and a nearby tree swing. This tranquil spot with dramatic views is the perfect place to end a hectic day, watching the stars come out one by one.
Additional Highlights: Custom Elfa closets and storage spaces throughout Huge custom understair integrated closets 2-car garage with interior access, built-in wall storage, and separate workroom space with utility sink Google Nest learning thermostat Ring video doorbell and outdoor security camera system Smart door lock Updated electrical system Perimeter lighting Extensive seismic retrofitting New roof and gutter system French drains Expanded attic access and storage space
