In a prime walk-to-town neighborhood, with original details and extensive updating throughout, this home has been owned by the Mann family, descendants of Nobel prize-winning novelist Thomas Mann, for over 50 years. Situated on a private .8 acre knoll, with lawns, sparkling pool, mature trees, and space for playground, this property will accommodate all the needs of a growing family. The separate fully permitted guest apartment is the ideal situation for in-laws or home office.
The long paver driveway is a lovely introduction to this inviting estate home, tucked above the street level. Walk up the slate path, lined with welcoming flowers, to the front door. The wood floor in the entry extends to the light and airy living room, with a raised hearth brick fireplace, recessed lighting, and idyllic views. The oversized sliding French doors provide access to the patio and garden, ideal for indoor/outdoor flow while entertaining. The adjacent dining room, also with wood floor, shares the view.
The heart of the home is the open-concept sky-lit chef’s kitchen, with bright white cabinetry, tile floor, granite counter, built-in oven and microwave, Jennair gas cooktop, two sinks, and breakfast bar seating. The large sunny breakfast room has a wood French door that opens to the terra cotta tile patio and level lawn beyond. Open to the kitchen, the family room includes wood floor, Andersen wood sliding door to patio, recessed lighting, and lots of windows for beautiful views and maximum light. A focal point is the charming original brick barbecue.
The bedroom wing offers three well-appointed rooms, including the romantic master suite. The large private master features lovely views, a quaint Dutch door leading to patio and hot tub, two closets, a brick fireplace, and totally renovated en suite bathroom with elegant raised glass dual sinks and oversize shower. The two additional bright and sunny bedrooms both offer delightful views.
Ideal for the varied lifestyles of today’s families, the detached 492 square foot guest apartment is private and quiet, yet readily accessible from the main house. With an entry foyer, separate bedroom, and inviting living room with cozy window seat and built-in cabinetry, there is plenty of space for live-in in-laws or home office suite. The updated bathroom includes tile floor, ample cabinetry, and tiled shower. The apartment is fully air conditioned. An additional versatile studio outbuilding, at the perimeter of the property, includes a full bathroom with shower.
The lush landscaping beckons residents to enjoy the expansive outdoor areas. The large patio adjacent to both living room and family room is ideal for entertaining or al fresco dining, while the secluded terra cotta patio affords a contemplative space for relaxation or reading. Two large level lawns are great for a soccer or croquet match, while the sunny pool is large enough for lap swimming. And what could be better than evenings in the hot tub under the gazebo? The large level grounds near the driveway could be developed for play ground or shade garden.
Additional features include oversize two-car attached carport, paver driveway, central heating, mostly dual pane windows, owned (not leased) solar heating system (both for house and pool), child safety pool cover. Children attend top-rated Orinda schools, including sought-after Glorietta Elementary, Orinda Intermediate, and Miramonte High (in the number one rated high school district in California).
7 Orchard Road is truly an estate property, in one of the most coveted locations in prestigious Orinda. While commanding a serene view from a private knoll, it is an easy walk or bike ride to town or BART. The pristine home offers the best of old-world Orinda charm combined with modern-day amenities, as well as the versatile floor plan of an independent guest house. This is a property that will adapt to the changing needs of a family for years of enjoyment.