3031 Kalmia St

Set in the heart of historic Burlingame, this architectural masterpiece seamlessly blends historic charm with award winning modern design. Originally built as a Craftsman bungalow, the home was thoughtfully transformed by architects Rene Davids & Christine Killory into a striking residence now famously known as The Observatory House. The defining feature of the home is its iconic stucco & marble clad tower, an architectural landmark that has earned multiple regional & national design awards, including an AIA Honor Award & recognition as San Diego Home & Garden’s Home of the Year. Inside the tower, a dramatic 19-foot library showcases floor to ceiling built-in shelving with space for approximately 5,000 books, a reading room complete with built-in desk & dumbwaiter, & steel stairways leading to two observation decks. From the upper deck, enjoy breathtaking 360 degree panoramic views spanning Balboa Park, downtown San Diego, the Coronado Bridge, Point Loma’s coastline, & the Jamul mountains. The home beautifully preserves many of its original details, including refinished maple hardwood floors, gum wood crown molding & millwork, custom built-ins, & stained glass windows. Designed around a central courtyard, the grand living room with fireplace, spacious formal dining room, breakfast nook with built-in hutch, & private downstairs office all feature French doors that open to the serene outdoor space, filling the home with natural light & creating seamless indoor outdoor living.