Located in up-and-coming Laurel District of Oakland, California, this two-bedroom, one-bath home was originally built in 1952. The midcentury home maintains character-defining details—including door hardware, millwork, tile, and even some appliances—but has been updated and carefully renovated to bring it up to speed with modern-day needs.

A cheery yellow door and wood paneling on the front porch give way to a large, open living room with a brick fireplace. Directly off the living room is the kitchen, which still features the original tile, '50s cabinets, and a Wedgewood oven, but has otherwise been completely updated. The mix of original and new gives the home a tangible personality.

With generous windows throughout the home, there’s a strong connection between indoors and outdoors, especially in the kitchen, which opens out directly into the garden.

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The backyard is full of drought-tolerant plants like palm trees, and there’s also a range of mature fruits—think blueberries, Meyer lemons, feijoa, fig, apricot, and avocados. In fact, an internationally renown landscape designer helped develop and implement the landscape and hardscape plan to let you take advantage of the local climate and growing season.

The open floor plan makes for a spacious, open feel and the two bedrooms are generously sized, with built-in storage and hardwood floors. The master bedroom in particular retains its vintage flavor, with a vanity featuring original midcentury hardware and detailing.

Two large, flexible bonus spaces can be used as offices, workshops, yoga studios, or just about any other need you might have—and the two car garage is currently used by the homeowner as a cabana.

3263 Kansas Avenue is listed for $749,000 by Dana Brook of Red Oak Realty.

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