The exquisite estate property at 50 Scenic Drive occupies one of the most coveted sites in Orinda. Located in a prestigious close-in neighborhood of custom homes, the residence was originally built in 1947 and has been meticulously and lovingly updated and expanded to include the best of contemporary amenities while preserving the charm of old Orinda. Within walking distance of Meadow Swim and Tennis Club and Glorietta Elementary School (via the trail on Valley Drive), this is a wonderful .94 acre setting for children. In addition to sought- after Glorietta School, students attend Orinda Intermediate and Miramonte High—part of the top-rated high school district in the state of California. Set back from the street behind a large level lawn, the 3752 square foot house is fronted by a long covered porch and simply breathes curb appeal. The entry, paved with authentic Mexican tiles, leads to the spacious living room, with vaulted ceiling, fireplace with marble surround and wood mantel, and built-in bookshelves and media center. This is a room of many talents, equally suited for entertaining on a grand scale or intimate afternoons with a cup of tea and a book. The walls of picture windows afford views of the verdant surrounding countryside. The adjacent formal dining room also features a high ceiling and French doors to the patio. Sunny and bright, the beautifully updated kitchen has a tile floor and granite counters with a convenient breakfast bar. Stainless steel appliances include a built-in Kitchenaid microwave and oven, separate Kitchenaid gas range, and Maytag dishwasher. There is a second sink that can also serve as a wet bar for the adjacent family room. With its walls of windows, high ceiling, corner fireplace and French doors to the deck, the family room is a wonderful gathering place to enjoy the gorgeous views and changing seasons. The elegant powder room with black commode and sink completes the formal area of the home. The three bedrooms on the main level are accessed by a wide hallway with large windows overlooking the front garden. The brilliantly updated master bedroom retreat features a high ceiling, lovely view, sitting area, dressing room with five well-organized closets, and a spa-like bathroom with dual vanities, honed limestone floor, large tiled shower with frameless door, and separate tub. The two additional bedrooms are both filled with light from large picture windows, and share a Jack and Jill bathroom with tiled combination tub/shower, greenhouse window, and double vanity sinks. All three bedrooms have been updated with dual pane wood Marvin windows. The conveniently situated laundry room features a sink and ample storage cabinets, and can accommodate the new larger washer and dryer models. Downstairs, the fourth bedroom (currently used as an office, with a wet bar) has large storage closets and offers access to the pool and patio. The tiled bathroom has a shower, convenient for swimmers. The beautifully landscaped grounds include lush expansive level lawn, inviting swimming pool, charming brick patio, garden paths, raised vegetable bed, and well-situated decks. With almost an acre of land, this exquisite knoll site offers unparalleled views, privacy and tranquility. For an enterprising homeowner, options such as a vineyard could be available. This is a rare Orinda property that will be cherished for generations to come.
