Originally built in 1963, 9 La Senda was custom designed and constructed for an engineer as the primary residence for his own family. In the 1960s, it was home to a young family with four active children who splashed in the pool, shot baskets with neighborhood friends at the sport court, and hosted sleepovers in the spacious bedrooms. Subsequently, three generations lived happily together, each enjoying their own private space but sharing the glorious views and peaceful setting. This home is now on the market for the first time in 56 years. La Senda is an exclusive cul-de-sac in the heart of Orinda’s prestigious Country Club neighborhood. Located just minutes from downtown Orinda, with its popular park and community center as well as BART, this home is also walking distance to Orinda Country Club. Children attend sought-after Orinda schools, including Sleepy Hollow Elementary, Orinda Intermediate, and Miramonte High School (#5 rated public high school in the state of California).The versatile floor plan comprises 5744 square feet of living space (per appraisal), and the prime lot is .49 acre.
The dramatic staircase, with banister hand-crafted by the owner, a talented mechanical engineer as well as artisan, leads to the fantastic living room. This glorious room features floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the wooded views and a fireplace with ceramic tile hearth custom designed by a local artist. The wet bar could be on loan from the set for “Mad Men!” A sliding door opens to a spacious deck with shade canopies. The adjacent dining room with its vaulted ceiling boasts the original tile flooring and a wall of built-in shelving as well as a sliding door to the deck. Ahead of its time, the kitchen is anchored by a large center island and includes a sunny breakfast nook with a door to the patio and pool. A large walk-in pantry surprises with a ceramic tile counter. With a wall of windows and a sliding door, the family room is the perfect indoor/outdoor space for family gatherings. Completing this level is the inviting master bedroom with gorgeous views, his and hers bathrooms, and two walk-in closets.
There are five secondary bedrooms occupying their own level of the home, all with wood flooring and views. Two bedrooms share a whimsical tiled bathroom and there is another full bathroom with tiled combination tub/shower. The uniquely inviting sunroom takes advantage of the treehouse setting and offers a bright and welcoming space to play games or curl up with a book. A large laundry room/hobby room is also located on this level, as well as ample storage rooms.
With its own exterior entry door, the in-law/au pair apartment is truly separate. Offering a charming living room (with space for kitchen area if desired), generous bedroom full bathroom, and private deck, this is a versatile and inviting living space.
The natural setting invites comparisons to a Tahoe vacation home. The majestic trees surrounding the property provide a private and serene backdrop for the multiple decks. By contrast, the pool, surrounding patio, and lush terraced gardens enjoy full sun. The sport court is shared by four properties and provides a fun gathering place for neighborhood children. 9 La Senda is filled with magical detail throughout, from the dumbwaiter to the original mid-century cabinet hardware to the brightly colored playhouse. This is the rare property that is equally capable of hosting an elegant fundraiser for 100 guests, a casual potluck for intimate friends, or a pool party for extended family. There are decades of happy memories created by the original owner’s children and grandchildren. Now it is time for the next lucky family to admire the love and craftsmanship that contributed to the creation of this exceptional home and to forge their own traditions within its walls.
