For those who seek the sophistication of urban loft dwelling combined with the pastoral setting and verdant views offered by the hills of Orinda, the search is over. 116 Via Floreado offers the sleek sensibility of post- mid-century modern architecture coupled with the most current sought-after amenities, in a superb setting. Nestled on a private half acre site, with sweeping views from virtually every room, the home is ideally situated within easy proximity of freeway, BART, shopping, and top-rated Orinda schools. The indoor-outdoor flow is maximized by the floor-to-ceiling windows, skylights, soaring ceilings, and sliding doors to expansive wrap-around decks and lovely level lawn and garden. The home is awash in natural light throughout the day, creating a sunny peaceful refuge. Offered for sale for the first time by the original owners, who had it designed for themselves in 1977 by the award-winning architect Michael Fejes, 116 Via Floreado offers an unparalleled opportunity to own an architecturally significant home in the heart of Orinda. The separate in-law apartment/home office with its own entrance was added approximately ten years ago. The design for the addition, created by architect Larry Paul, was on display at the Lawrence Hall of Science, where it captured an award. The resulting versatile 3482 square foot floor plan accommodates the diverse needs of today’s families. The high-ceilinged entry with tile floor overlooks the living room and offers an introductory taste of the fabulous architectural details found throughout the home. The heart of the home is the grand living room, a space where interior and exterior elements truly flow together. With floor-to-ceiling windows, vaulted ceiling, hardwood floor, and sliding door to the large deck, this room is wonderful for entertaining and enjoying the panoramic views. The large fireplace, with raised hearth and original custom-commissioned Heath tile surround, serves to anchor the light and airy room. The adjacent formal dining room also has a hardwood floor, sliding door to deck, and large windows from which to enjoy the spectacular view. The beautifully updated gourmet kitchen is the perfect blend of minimalist design and modern accoutrements, with granite countertops, recessed lighting, and hardwood floor. The stainless steel appliances include Frigidaire Professional Series double convection ovens, GE Profile refrigerator, and Avanti wine refrigerator. The large center island boasts a Jennair gas cooktop. The inviting eating area has a sliding door to the patio and lawn. With a wall of built-in bookshelves, recessed lighting, architecturally interesting window arrangement, the central family room is an ideal gathering place. There is also a large sunny bedroom with oversize closet on this level, and an adjacent full bathroom with shower and tile floor. Conveniently located, the laundry room has a sink and storage cabinets. The lower level , also accessible via a well-crafted wood spiral staircase from the family room, features its own well-lit exterior entrance, for complete separation and privacy. It has a marble tile entry with a high ceiling. The light-filled living room has built-in bookshelves, sliding door to deck, and marble fireplace with raised hearth. There is a convenient compact kitchen, with refrigerator, sink, and range, and a half bathroom. Double doors lead to a spacious bedroom with sliding door to the deck, recessed lighting, huge walk-in closet, and ensuite bathroom with combination tub/shower. The dramatic master bedroom, on the upper level, features a vaulted ceiling and built-ins. The delightful sunny reading nook with window seat is the ideal place to nap in the sun and enjoy the spectacular views. There are two well-appointed closets, including a walk-in. The gorgeous updated bathroom features a marble slab counter with contemporary double vanities, marble floor, high ceiling with skylight, and bathtub with lovely view. There is an additional inviting bedroom on this level, and a marble bathroom with combination tub/shower. The wonderful half acre lot includes a sunny level lawn and play yard, accessed directly from the kitchen. The landscape design was created by Sarah Liss-Katz, former head of landscape design at HLK Architects in Los Angeles. The plantings along the street and terracing downwards to the house were carefully selected to create a natural yet lush environment. Additional level land below the decks could be a pool site. The attached two-car garage with interior access has walls of built-in cabinetry and a large finished storage loft with skylight. The downstairs addition has its own central heating and air conditioning, while the main house has a single zone for central heating, as well as two zones for central air conditioning, one for each level. 116 Via Floreado is an example of a timeless architectural gem that seamlessly incorporates the natural landscape into its design and provides a versatile living environment for today’s active family.
