Designed to dazzle, this 1936 Clarence Tantau Mediterranean villa underwent a major expansion a half-century later, more than doubling the size of the existing home. During the last two and one-half years, the current owners have made major changes to the kitchen, atrium, and surrounding rooms. The results are truly extraordinary and an entertainer’s dream.

As you enter through the garden gate, you descend into the beautifully landscaped garden filled with cascading streams, fountains and bronze sculptures. The massive original front door opens into a light-filled atrium, which was constructed by a previous owner to honor his Hawaiian bride’s heritage. This spectacular two-story atrium, where year-round natural light nurtures the lush, tropical greenery, has a new glass roof and Travertine marble floors with radiant heat. The owners have chosen to make this their living room so they can enjoy the changing light. Enjoy the owners’ large art collection exhibited throughout the house. Many of the artists were “discovered” by the homeowners over the years.

As you proceed down the newly constructed stairway, stop and view the powder room at the base of the stairs. This is the first room to reflect the owners’ theme of the house: “purple, curves and friendly.” Notice the beautiful pendant lights designed by Union Street Glass. Passing the spacious and well-appointed office (the lot was excavated to accommodate this new addition), you come to a sophisticated bar complete with granite counter tops, dishwasher drawer, and icemaker. Note the beautiful Venetian plaster walls. Next to the bar is the library, which was part of the original design of the house. A mahogany wraparound ladder makes access to the upper shelves a breeze.

As you enter the family/music room, you will marvel at the beautiful views of the gardens and San Francisco Bay. Beamed ceilings and thick walls, especially noticeable at the recessed window near the fireplace, characterize this older home’s charming architecture. Don’t miss the Murano glass sculpture “Kiss” in the window. Enjoy Marvin tickling the ivories and don’t forget to “tip” him as you leave. Continue into the adjoining formal dining room with two-tone plank floors, Venetian plaster walls, and beamed ceiling. The light fixture is by Christina Lightspann, a local designer. Picture yourself at the distressed walnut table, sipping champagne and celebrating the spectacular renovation of this home.

The warm, light-filled kitchen, which doubled in size during this renovation, imparts a welcoming ambiance. Image enjoying one of the owner’s special cappuccinos in such a delightful setting!

There is a baking center, complete with marble countertops and double ovens, a coffee and tea center with unique drawer pulls, a cooking center with a Wolf range and a “Costco” storage room. A solarium treatment and a new light-well allow sunlight to flood the room year-round. The custom birds-eye maple and cherry cabinets, fossil granite and marble countertops, and top of the line appliances make this room a chef’s delight. Unique pendant lights by Union Street Glass complete this room.

Exiting the kitchen, you will be dazzled by the massive stone patios, with outdoor kitchen, round fireplace, and glorious views. As you leave the house through gardens originally designed by Thomas Church, reflect upon the beauty and serenity of this unique home.

Home Coordinators: Jan Howland and Robin Huntington