A luxury retreat with European sensibilities, 251 Monte Vista Ridge has been meticulously updated for the most discriminating buyer, benefiting from an extensive one million dollar custom “makeover” performed by the longtime owners in 2009. This 4527 square foot (per assessor record) home features spectacular views from virtually every room, including vistas of Briones reservoir and Mt. Diablo. With the expansive Tuscan-style terrace and outdoor kitchen, it is easy to achieve the epitome of the California indoor/outdoor lifestyle. The home occupies a prime 1.65 acre estate setting within prestigious Monte Vista Ridge, one of Orinda’s most exclusive neighborhoods. This sought after area of highly individualized custom homes features easy access to BART, freeway, the Orinda sports fields, and top rated Wagner Ranch Elementary School.
An imposing electronically controlled wrought-iron gate enhances the private ambience of the beautiful knoll site. The curving drive leads to the invitingly landscaped front yard. The custom arched entry door, surrounded by beveled glass windows, opens to the formal entry with curved ceiling and hardwood flooring. The gracious living room also boasts random plank flooring, marble fireplace with wood mantel, a Palladian window, and French doors opening to the terrace. The adjacent formal dining room, accessed via double arched doors from the living room, also has random plank hardwood flooring and French doors, as well as lighted display niches.
The stunning outdoor terrace with its spectacular views provides fabulous outdoor entertaining and dining opportunities even in inclement weather. The outdoor kitchen is beautifully appointed with built-in grill, wok, and cook-top.
The beautifully renovated kitchen features abundant white custom cabinetry, honed granite counters, hardwood floors, recessed lighting, double sink, and top quality stainless steel appliances including a Viking gas cook-top, Subzero refrigerator, Maytag dishwasher, GE Profile oven and microwave, and trash compactor. There is also a built-in work desk and a lovely six sided breakfast nook surrounded by view windows.
Completing the main level is a charming bedroom graced with built-in shelving, currently used as an office. With windows on three sides, the room is flooded with natural light, and has a double door closet. The adjacent bathroom is both elegant, with marble tile floor and tile shower, and convenient, with a door to the rear yard and pathway to the outdoor spa.
There is no need to make reservations for a romantic getaway when you can come home to the idyllic master bedroom suite. With its breathtaking views, expansive terrace, and marble fireplace, this is an exceptional retreat. The huge walk-in closet, with cedar-lined walls, is filled with light, thanks to a glass door leading to the terrace. The bedroom also opens to a charming balcony. Equally light and airy, the master bathroom has a marble floor and counter, dual vanities, jetted tub and marble shower with two shower heads. The gorgeous views of Mt. Diablo contribute to the serene spa-like atmosphere.
The two additional spacious bedrooms on the upper level both enjoy lovely outlooks. There is a well-situated laundry room, with ample shelving, sink, and built-in ironing board. The hall bathroom has a tiled combination tub/shower.
Use your imagination to enjoy the top level of the home. Ideal as a gym, playroom, craft or game room, this expansive space is adaptable to meet your needs. Additionally, there is a private bedroom with huge walk-in closet, opening to a roomy “secret” alcove, and a full bathroom with marble tile shower.
The lower level of the home has a “bonus room” – a private hideaway with a closet of built-in shelving that is ideal for an office retreat or hobby room. The large garage can easily accommodate four vehicles. Additionally, the home features three zones of central heating and air conditioning, a security alarm system, fire resistant tile roof, and dual pane, true divided light, wood windows. The beautiful and extensive grounds have been professionally landscaped for ease of maintenance.
In all, this one-of-a-kind estate home is ideally designed to provide a showcase for gracious entertaining, both indoors and out, as well as a wonderful environment for functional day to day family life.
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