Hot Property
Oakland home blends modern functionality with classic design.
Celia Maddox distinguishes between being thoughtful and overthinking. Look no further than her reasoning for upgrading the finishes and form of 1117 Portola Ave. in the Crocker Highlands neighborhood of Oakland where she’s lived since 2013.
“I wanted to make my home more interesting,” said Maddox, who responded to her own challenge by commissioning a family room and wet bar on the lower level.
Bay views from five rooms only increase the home’s appeal. But overall design and adaptability clinched her decision to buy.
“One of the most appealing parts of the home is how it’s multifunctional. A family could take up the entire house, or the lower level could host an au pair or caretaker,” she said.
The refined three-bedroom enjoys Brazilian hardwood flooring, always-changing vistas and a wet bar in its media room. A Viking stove outfits the updated chef ’s kitchen, and a soothing sunroom opens to an inviting deck.
Functional aspects of the home progressed as well. Maddox installed a washer and dryer on the bedroom level, creating the convenience of separate laundry areas spread across two floors. A one-car garage now occupies the space where a flimsy carport once stood.
Two compact bedrooms shared a wall before Maddox owned the home. Shortly after finalizing the deal, she had workers take out the wall and install a walk-in closet in the freshly expanded bedroom.
Public rooms in the English-style country home have a tone of traditional elegance.
Thick baseboards and dense moldings accent rooms that enjoy seamless flow through wide entryways.
Beadwork adorns a mantel surrounding the living room’s wood-burning stone fireplace. Pass through an archway to transition into a tiled sun- room with bay views. Windows occupy two walls of the family room, while a third contains French doors opening to the rear deck.
Traditional hardware and display cabinetry finish a bright kitchen with bay views. Lightly colored granite counters complements the earth tone tiles used for the floor and backsplash.
The listing hosts an open house this weekend. Visit www.1117Portal.com to learn more.
Listing agent: Judy Cain, Grubb Co., (510) 612-0204, cain@grubbco.com; Ben Kahn, the Grubb Co., (510) 260-7141, bkhan@grubbco.com.