Tucked away in the ultra-luxe enclave of Ross, California in Marin County is a luxurious estate that immediately brings to mind the refrain “location, location, location.”
The gentle glow of the sun as it rises to the east and sets to the west is an experience that can be savored as you move around the house and the grounds of this home at 325 Upper Toyon Drive just outside of San Francisco.
The estate on 4.5 acres was completely re-constructed in 2004 and designed by architect Andrew Skurman in a breezy Santa Barbara style. The two-story, 8,845-square-foot home with five bedrooms, four full baths and two half baths is co-listed for $16.5 million by Compass agents Carey Hagglund Condy and Neal Ward.
An elegant fountain and hanging iron lanterns grace the classic loggia and courtyard entry. Look around and you’ll see hawks and other majestic birds of prey, the skyline of downtown San Francisco, Mount Tamalpais, the San Francisco Bay, Ross Valley out to the west and Mount Diablo in the East Bay. But it’s the award-winning gardens by landscape architect Michael Yandle that will have you dreaming of spending more time outdoors.
During garden tours, Condy said guests have enjoyed an up-close and personal look at the extraordinary rose garden, lavender, bougainvillea, crepe myrtles, olive trees and heritage oaks, citrus fruit, fig trees, a huge vegetable area and palm tree at the entry.
“Our clients told us that when they were looking at the property back in the day they didn’t even look at the house,” said Condy. “It’s one of those top-of-the-world settings with 360-degree views. They just saw the setting and the views and said the deal’s done.”
Indeed, once you step foot into the home, multiple sets of French doors keep the views open and free-flowing. Highlights include 14-foot ceilings, a giant stone fireplace, beautiful formal dining room and terraces off the kitchen and family room.
The primary bedroom on the main level includes a large office space with a hot tub just outside the door. French doors open to the garden and provide a view of the pool area. Stone stairs descend to the sparkling pool, level turf yard and pool house with an outdoor kitchen. Bougainvillea plants and grapevine-covered arbor shade the outdoor dining area.
Two additional bedrooms are on the main level. The family room and gourmet kitchen open to a terrace. The property also includes a two-bedroom guest house with a full kitchen, full gym, media/game room, three-car garage, generator and solar power.
“This would be an incredible property for a buyer who is looking to live in a beautiful area surrounded by nature who values privacy, serenity, beauty and, obviously, incredible architecture,” said Condy. “I call this a destination property because once you get there you never want to leave. It could also be an incredible second home for someone who maybe doesn’t want to go all the way to Napa Valley.”
Click here to watch a video showcasing stunning views of the estate.