Sleek Architectural Masterpiece

40 Valley View Road Orinda, California 94563 United States

This modern Swatt-Miers home— impeccably designed and appointed— commands what may be the best view in all of Orinda. Descend a private drive into a gated enclave and enjoy the serenity that puts the cares of the world far away. The home is exceptional, but one need not even enter the home to appreciate its magnificence. Stroll the west-facing exterior, over the wide travertine stone deck, and enjoy the warmth of the afternoon sun and the views of the Berkeley hills— ranging from the Briones Regional Park to the north, to the ridge in the distance separating Orinda from Tilden Park and its environs. Oaks, pines, and other mature trees surround the grounds, and the sixth and seventh holes of the Orinda Country Club can be found a few hundred yards through the trees to the south. A spacious infinity pool adjoins the deck to one side, with a DCS barbecue (with surrounding counters), a shaded outdoor dining area that can accommodate dozens, and a custom fire pit easily seating 10 or more. To the other side lies a secluded Bullfrog hot tub, where in the evening one may enjoy a glass of wine and the hillside lights in the distance. After relaxing in the hot tub, guests may retire to the 840 square foot guest house just yards away— with a bedroom, living room with television, full bathroom with dual sinks, and private deck. A walking path surrounds the grounds. The main home itself has every amenity. Enter past a soothing pond and water feature, through a dramatic 9x4 foot western red cedar door. Ceilings nearly 14 feet high welcome visitors, and the spacious living room and dining room (with a striking chandelier descending from the ceiling over travertine floors), provide a venue to entertain groups small and large. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer spectacular views of the Berkeley hills. From the elegant dining room, one path leads to the kitchen past a glass-enclosed, refrigerated wine cellar accommodating 750 bottles. The other path from the dining room leads to the kitchen past a hidden door leading to a spacious wet bar with wood shelving. The kitchen offers every appointment, including Miele, SubZero and Bosch appliances, dual sinks, a breakfast bar with stools, and an adjoining breakfast table. Cabinetry can be found floor to ceiling, and one won’t find a distracting handle anywhere in the room; every cabinet is subtly accessible. The kitchen leads to the glass-enclosed family room, with views of the swimming pool and hillsides in the distance, a spectacular 74” Samsung television for sports and other television watching, and a warming gas fireplace just underneath. The Klipsch sound system in the ceilings and walls provides music to fit every mood. The bedrooms lie on two levels to the other side of the house. The principal suite offers striking views of the hillside to the west, with retractable shades to block sunlight when desired. Two spacious walk-in closets will accommodate every wardrobe. The bathroom has dual sinks, a stand-alone tub, and a unique, spacious shower. The bathroom adjoins a separate private deck, with unparalleled views from the southwest to the northwest. It’s easy to move from rest to work, because a comfortable office (itself with dramatic west- and northwest-facing views) lies just steps from the principal suite. A spacious laundry room adjoins the principal suite. Descend white oak wood stairs to the other bedrooms and living area in the main house. An entertainment room and full bathroom lie at the bottom of the stairs. Two other bedrooms, each with stunning views of the hills, and an additional bathroom lie beyond. Other amenities abound. A three-car garage and adjacent parking area accommodate the residents and all guests, and a DKS gate system provides security. The home is just minutes to Orinda BART and the 24 freeway, and yet a world away from the bustle of modern life.