456 Squire Canyon Road

Picture a redwood house surrounded by oaks and manzanitas at the top of Squire Canyon—on nearly 7 acres with virtually no one in sight, and a view to die for. Designed by early solar pioneers and built by local green builders in 1987, this single-level home has been lovingly lived in by its original owners ever since. It stretches in a long, easy curve along a west-facing ridge, perched on piers set in solid rock, with the hillside left wild by design. Inside, 2,046 sq. ft. hold 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. The open living area flows from the kitchen to breakfast bar, dining room, a cozy nook, and down into a sunken living room, with a separate family room. The primary suite has its own dressing and sitting room, and yes, one bath has a sparkling clawfoot tub. High knotty pine ceilings throughout, light oak cabinetry, and a mix of hardwood, travertine, and bamboo floors keep things warm and natural, while hidden soffit lighting gives the kitchen a soft glow after dark. This house was clever about energy long before it was trendy. A solar trombe wall soaks up winter sun, big skylights warm the interior walls, and a handsome glass-front wood stove makes a great spot for your coffee on foggy mornings. Two little Jotul stoves add extra coziness in the family room and primary bedroom. When the power goes out down the hill, the owned 24-panel solar system with 3 batteries keeps the lights on up here. A community well shared with four other households has run strong for over 40 years, and there's R.O. filtered water right at the kitchen sink. Every room has a view, and 2 double and 7 single French doors practically beg you to step out onto the wraparound redwood deck. Pick one of the four sitting areas depending on your mood: sunny or shady, breezy or calm, long view or close-up. Then settle in for the show. Wildflowers roll in with spring, deer and birds wander through, fog pours over the hills, sunsets go through every color, and on clear nights the stars feel close enough to touch. Add a laundry room, plenty of storage, and a freshly paved driveway with room for friends, and you're set. The best part? It all feels a world away, yet Avila Beach is just 5 miles down the road and San Luis Obispo is only 10 minutes north, with beaches, trails, golf, wineries, farm stands, and great food close by.