1090 Cragmont Ave

A once-in-a-lifetime home, 1090 Cragmont Avenue sits on a peaceful street close to everything yet worlds away. The redwoods, native oaks, bird song, and sweet air transport you to a forested glen, and as the trees part this uniquely Berkeley home beckons you home. Exceptionally well-built in 1981, this home contains elements cherry-picked by the creatives who valued craftsmanship and artistry. Legend has it that the builder rescued architectural treasures from Oakland homes demolished to make room for today’s I-980 freeway. The stained glass, moulding, light fixtures, doorknobs, even the gorgeous upstairs maple floor (salvaged from a high school gymnasium!)—all of it has a history, a previous life, woven into this one. All these details are apparent upon approach, as time seems to slow once the door opens and reveals vaulted wood beam ceilings, dancing light moving through stained glass, and stunning updates to bring the home into the 21st century. The main level presents a chef’s kitchen with garden-view eat-in nook, a grand living room with sliding glass doors that open to a view of the SF Bay and the romantic garden, a sophisticated dining room, and a warm office. Descend the elegant stairs to the peaceful garden level and find four bedrooms, a laundry room, and a primary suite that benefits from direct access to the hot tub deck - soak under the stars, surrounded by flowers, ferns, and forested hillside, before slipping back into bed. Last but not least, is the garden. The garden! A world away from the hustle and bustle of traffic and to-do lists. Don’t miss your chance to see this private Berkeley treasure while you can.