This Whimsical, $1.4M Bay Area Home Is a Slice of the French Countryside

Designed by famed architect Christopher Alexander, the 1980s gem is packed with handcrafted built-ins from floor to ceiling.
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Location: 700 Hillside Ave, Albany, California

Price: $1,395,000

Architect: Christopher Alexander

Year Built: 1984

Footprint: 2,028 square feet (four bedrooms, two baths)

Lot Size: 0.09 acres

From the Agent: "Welcome to the Sala House, a distinguished architectural gem on Albany Hill, designed by architect Christopher Alexander, a world-renowned figure in the field and a professor emeritus at UC Berkeley. This extraordinary home, inspired by the French countryside, stands as a testament to Alexander’s unique design philosophies. Upon stepping inside the Sala House, you’ll be captivated by its blend of functionality and whimsy. Two private outdoor spaces offer panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay, and perched atop Albany Hill, you’ll have easy access to the vast open space adjacent to the property. The Sala House isn’t just a residence; it’s a living masterpiece."

The colorful home sits nestled into a hillside overlooking the San Francisco Bay. 

The colorful home sits nestled into a hillside overlooking the San Francisco Bay. 

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The landing is wrapped in wood from floor to ceiling.. 

The landing is wrapped in wood from floor to ceiling.. 

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Steps away from the kitchen is a spacious patio with striking bay views.

Steps away from the kitchen is a spacious patio with striking bay views.

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Picture windows line the long hallway connecting the living areas to the bedroom, ensuring plenty of natural light sweeps inside.

Picture windows line the long hallway connecting the living areas to the bedroom, ensuring plenty of natural light sweeps inside.

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"You’ll be immediately captivated by the unparalleled creativity and attention to detail that went into crafting this home," notes the agent.

"You’ll be immediately captivated by the unparalleled creativity and attention to detail that went into crafting this home," notes the agent.

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Dwell Staff
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