1 Acres in Kentfield, CA - $4,750,000
This is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to own a piece of architectural history. A tour de force of midcentury modern style, this iconic early-1950s residence in Marins Kent Woodlands is the work of the legendary John Funk, with landscaping by eminent designer Lawrence Halprin. During a painstaking renovation in 2012-13, the stylistic integrity and provenance of the light-filled four-bedroom homealong with the settings carefully chosen plantingswere maintained through thorough, sensitive attention to detail.
Enthusiastic afficionados of midcentury modern design, the current owners undertook the rejuvenation as a labor of love. They sought out the original architectural and landscaping plans in university archives and obtained Morley Baers 1951 photos of the property to serve as references and guides. Architectural intent and themes were fastidiously preserved; and finishes, materials, and fix...
Enthusiastic afficionados of midcentury modern design, the current owners undertook the rejuvenation as a labor of love. They sought out the original architectural and landscaping plans in university archives and obtained Morley Baers 1951 photos of the property to serve as references and guides. Architectural intent and themes were fastidiously preserved; and finishes, materials, and fixtures were meticulously matched. Funks plans provided notes on types of wood to be used, and virtually all windows, screens, and transoms were retained as Funk designed them.
The true single-level floor plan allows for ease of movement and effortless living, and every room benefits from midcentury moderns prolific use of glass. The open living and dining area features artful light fixtures, a fireplace set in timeless brick, a discreet built-in buffet, and glass walls that blur the boundary between indoors and out and turn dramatic scenery into dynamic art day and night. The library is outfitted with abundant built-insincluding space for a wide-screen televisionand enjoys an idyllic view into a stand of mature evergreens. Sleek and streamlined, the kitchen boasts top-caliber appliances, a peninsula with counter seating, cheerful fixtures, and plentiful natural light. The breakfast area opens directly to a sheltered alfresco dining area.
Private quarters occupying their own wing. The primary suite is a peaceful retreat with a wall of glass affording a view of a colorful natural tableau, thriving flora, stalwart trees, hilltops, and the bay. One corner is occupied by an office nook with useful built-ins. In the luxurious owners bathadded as part of the renovationa lavish soaking tub sits beside a full wall of windows that transforms the grounds into a soothing backdrop. Cool stone meets warm wood in this spa-inspired oasis, which also offers a dual-sink vanity and a spacious step-in shower. Of the two guest bedroomseach of which has a wide windowone is suffused with a gentle glow, while the other is awash in the vibrant natural hues of the foliage just outside.
Modern conveniences have not been overlooked. The estate also includes a freestanding office, an approved expansion of which would allow for the creation of an enhanced guesthouse or superlative professional work space.
The residence celebrates its environs, offering views of the ever-changing natural theater, a direct outlook on Mount Tamalpais, sunrises and moonrises, and a sweeping vista that encompasses the bay, and the San Francisco skyline. An expansive terrace with a gracefully curving edge provides covered and open-air living, dining, and lounging spaces; a fire pit; and a putting green. On the verge of the terrace is a lush lawn enveloping a kidney-shaped swimming poolanother quintessential element of midcentury modern design. Beyond, in a hidden green grove, is a patio perfect for poolside lounging.
The homesitenearly one level acre on a mountaintopis fully fenced and threaded with pathways, creating a private compound-like feel that affords the ability to enjoy the pool and spa, meander freely amid nature, and bask in the fresh air and picturesque vistas.
View Morley Baer 1951 Photography
View Renovation
