Monterey Terrace is an exclusive enclave of estate homes in the heart of Orinda, unusual for its combination of privacy and rural charm in proximity to shopping, transportation, BART, and Orinda’s top-rated schools. In a class of its own, the architecturally significant home at 20 Monterey Terrace was custom built for the current owner in 1997. The 5066 square foot residence, with its smooth-flowing floor plan and meticulous attention to detail, occupies an exceptional private .73 acre lushly landscaped wooded lot, with inviting terraces, patio, lawn, and expansive level play area. Opportunities abound for pool, sport court, or whatever is conjured in the imaginations of gardeners and nature lovers. With 5 bedrooms in the main residence plus a one bedroom apartment with separate entrance, 20 Monterey Terrace beautifully meets the needs of today’s varied lifestyles. The romantic slate entry courtyard, with its lush bougainvillea and dramatic series of peaked skylights, sets the stage for the oversize glass entry door that provides access to this spectacular home. The elegant living room, with vaulted ceiling, recessed lighting, corner stone fireplace, is a mecca for entertainers. The adjacent formal dining room boasts a raised coffered ceiling and French doors to the courtyard. Truly the heart of the home, the spacious gourmet chef’s kitchen features a large center island with a prep sink and wine refrigerator, as well as a separate peninsula for casual dining. Elegant stainless steel appliances include Thermador gas cooktop (with pot filler), Dacor double convection ovens, GE Monogram refrigerator, Bosch dishwasher. Additional features include recessed lighting, granite countertops, custom cherry wood cabinetry (some with glass fronts), desk area. A convenient walk-in pantry provides additional storage. Adjacent to the kitchen, the inviting family room has three pairs of French doors opening to the sunny terrace and pastoral views. A stone raised-hearth fireplace with heater insert and surrounding built-in media storage shelves provides a dramatic yet intimate focal point. The well-situated powder room features designer finishes. Completing the main level, the private master suite defines luxury. This romantic retreat includes a raised hearth granite fireplace, door to secluded balcony, lovely views, and recessed lighting. The adjacent study (possible nursery) has a custom desk with book shelves and granite surface. The spectacular en suite bathroom is an artistic vision, with double vanities with granite counters, each with its own whimsical mirror. Two strategically placed granite half-walls frame the view and provide privacy for the bathing room with its Jacuzzi tub and two shower heads. The large walk-in closet is well-appointed with both shelving and hanging space. Downstairs, the versatile game room is an ideal gathering place, with sliding doors to the terrace and back yard. There are four additional spacious bedrooms on this level. Two boast en suite bathrooms, beautifully finished with limestone combination tub/shower. Two other bedrooms each have a sliding door to the terrace, and share a compartmented bathroom with two vanities, tub, and separate shower. For the entertainer, the wine room has endless possibilities, with a wet bar and access to large storage area. The spacious laundry room has counter space, a sink, and ample storage. The home’s additional amenities include attached three-car garage with two doors and interior access, central heating and air conditioning, security alarm system, extensive limestone flooring and recessed lighting. Accessed through its own entrance at the rear of the property is a separate one-bedroom apartment, currently occupied by a tenant. This highly functional living space includes a living room, kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom, and would be excellently suited for guests, au-pair, in-law, or home office. The various gracious outdoor living areas include terraces, patios, level lawn
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