creativespacesbuilders.com ©
2000
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