6139 Chelton Drive

Piedmont Pines, Oakland

Out of a dream, or a scene from a favorite storybook, the house and gardens at 6139 Chelton take you to a place of peaceful beauty (with a dash of excitement from the spectacular city views). In the heart of the verdant Oakland Hills, with easy access to Montclair Village, Rockridge and Highway 13, this is a place where the urban hum of the city disappears and the property conjures romantic serenity through traditional architecture, lush gardens, and breathtaking views.

 

One of the most striking design statements of this remarkable place is the entrance: a brick staircase leads down from street level, meandering through the thoughtfully planted azaleas, rhododendrons, dogwoods and Japanese maples, creating an intimate oasis of ultimate privacy for the 1938 English Tudor that lies secluded within the beautiful setting. Large windows flood the interiors of the four-bedroom, three bath home with natural light and frame views of the landscape — and scenic San Francisco Bay and bridge views — from nearly every room. A pleasing mix of period details (original wood floors, diamond-paned leaded glass windows, hand-hewn redwood) and modern thrills (the good stuff: luxe kitchen, updated bathrooms, and more!) blend harmoniously in this spacious home: the epitome of welcoming comfort and easy elegance.

 

Characterized by generous, light-filled spaces and an easy floor plan, the main level rooms unfold with thoughtful detailing. The eat-in kitchen is an organic mix of colors and textures, designed for a chef with a 48-inch Viking refrigerator, Thermador cooktop, Miele double ovens and two Miele dishwashers — French doors open to the expansive deck, allowing for easy indoor/outdoor living with plenty of room to cook, eat and entertain. Tall leaded glass windows and doors showcase sweeping bay and city views from the formal dining room, spacious enough for family and friends to gather. Hand-hewn redwood beams in the living room establish that sometimes more is more: combining an enormous expanse of glass showcasing the glorious vistas beyond (complete with automatic sun shade), a rustic brick fireplace topped with a hand-hewn wood mantle, and a wall of custom built-ins surrounding three diamond-paned lead glass windows. Completing this level are a tranquil bedroom overlooking the quiet front gardens, and a full bath set off the hallway.

 

A richly textured wooden staircase leads up to the second floor, where a generous landing provides an inviting vignette. Nestled in the trees, the master bedroom is filled with light and plenty of space. Calm, neutral hues make this a perfect room for relaxation, with windows looking out onto serene greenery and twinkling city lights. The two walk-in closets offer a welcome contemporary touch, while interesting architectural angles highlight heritage craftsmanship, paying respect to original 1930s charm. The travertine-clad bathroom mixes timeless design with luxe accents — a marble vanity, jetted tub, and walk-in shower pack a serious spa-like punch. Good vibes only in the third bedroom, serene and welcoming with the same oh-my views — and a surprise: the room opens to an enormous attic space, currently used as storage but offering opportunity to create an impressive bedroom suite.

 

The lower level of the home deftly marries crisp design with warm, comfortable atmosphere. A new bathroom with marble-topped vanity, porcelain tiles, and an airy, walk-in shower makes every day feel like spa day. Light bounces around the private fourth bedroom, and creates a peaceful feel — a walk-in closet provides plenty of storage, and direct access to the back patio offers function and flexibility. A wall of custom-built cabinetry in the family room surrounds a recirculating gas fireplace, and the living space extends into the landscape through wide French doors opening to the outdoors. The backyard is a multi-level tribute to Mother Nature: an expansive sandstone patio will have you dreaming of alfresco fetes in the lush, Mediterranean inspired garden. Lemon, lime and olive trees conjure visions of Tuscany, and while beautiful and bold the landscapes are still relaxed and low-maintenance. Below, a wooden deck tucked under a canopy of oak trees is an idyllic spot for a romantic tete-a-tete beneath the swaying chandelier.

 

After the sun sets, strategic uplighting showcases maple and oak trees and path lights create an enchanting display in the garden. The lights of Oakland, San Francisco, and the Bay Bridge provide a gorgeous backdrop from the deck and living room.

 

With front-row seats to one of the most photographed vistas in the world, the brick-and-timber clad Tudor celebrates architectural integrity with family-friendly livability… and the breathtaking views are something to swoon over. Multiple alfresco living spaces reinforce the house’s connection with the outdoors, creating a dreamy escape you always want to come home to.