Tucked away on the cul-de-sac end of a prime street in the sought-after Country Club neighborhood, 81 La Cuesta is a hidden jewel. With 4 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms, this 2,581 square foot home (per assessor record) has been beautifully updated and painstakingly maintained. Sunlight floods every room, creating a light and open space surrounded by mature trees.
The private fenced front courtyard features a slate patio and flowering bushes, a delightful introduction to this tasteful home. The custom beveled glass front door opens to an inviting entry, which in turn leads to the light and airy living room. With random plank hardwood floor, recessed lighting, sliding door to deck, and traditional fireplace flanked by built-in bookshelves, this room is ideal for gatherings. The adjacent formal dining room also has random plank hardwood floor and custom woodwork including lighted glass-front cabinets. At the heart of the home is the bright and cheerful kitchen, with granite tile counter, maple cabinets, tile floor, recessed lighting, and a central skylight. Appliances include a Creda gas cooktop, stainless steel Jennair dishwasher, GE Profile refrigerator, and Frigidaire Euroflair oven.
The spacious family room has hardwood flooring, raised hearth fireplace, built-in bookshelves and storage cabinets, recessed lighting, and large picture windows overlooking the courtyard. The three bedrooms on the main floor all have hardwood flooring. The first has mirrored closet doors and a pretty view of the garden; the second has a large walk-in closet; the third, currently used as an office, has French doors to the patio. The first full bathroom in this wing has a tile floor and compartmented large tiled shower. The second bathroom, beautifully renovated, features a granite counter, marble tile floor and tiled combination tub/shower. Completing this level, the convenient laundry closet has storage shelves.
No need to take a spa vacation…the incredible master bedroom retreat offers all the amenities of an upscale bed and breakfast. The spacious room has hardwood floor, coffered ceiling, and gorgeous pastoral views. The stunning en suite bathroom is truly luxurious, with double vanity, shower with mosaic glass insets, separate tub, tasteful built-in dresser, views, and a skylight to bathe the room in natural light.
Outdoor living is at its best at 81 La Cuesta. The extensive deck is perfect for relaxing or enjoying al fresco dining. The inviting brick patio offers a shaded area for play or entertaining. There is also a level yard area waiting to be developed and raised vegetable beds. Since the home is well-sited on a shared private lane with only one house beyond, there is opportunity for basketball in the driveway as well. Additional amenities include detached two car garage with remote control garage door, also operable from the home’s interior, forced air central heating, dual pane windows in every room except family room.
Uniquely light-filled, 81 La Cuesta is nestled on a quiet private street, yet is only minutes from shopping and commute. Children attend top-rated Orinda schools, including Miramonte High School (in Acalanes high school district, number one in the state of California). This exceptional property combines all the elements of a comfortable family home with space for myriad activities with the striking architecture and fine finishes of a distinctive estate.