This gem is the result of a felicitous collaboration between the owner, a California-based artist, and architect, Julie Dowling. Responding to the ageless call of axial symmetry, a modern architectural take on eclectic inspiration has overseen this wonderfully-ordered structure. The graceful flow from room to room ultimately connecting indoors and outdoors is an adaptation of the enfilade principle employed for several centuries in palaces and grand residences, though rarely encountered in todays smaller custom residences. Sophisticated and yet comfortably casual, simultaneously intimate and expansive, this grand home is a masterwork of form and function. Four bedrooms with en suite bathrooms, grand scale living/dining room overlooking the pool and Sonoma Valley to Mount Diablo, highly functional kitchen with luxury appliances, artists studio with full spectrum natural balanced lighting, gallery with exterior door, and with an incredible library at the epicenter. Entering this precinct of books through an imported English 18th century carved door surround, this sanctuary invites and encourages lifelong reading. With fifteen-foot ceilings, floor to ceiling shelving, learning and collecting are encouraged to become second nature. Wide hallways and specially reinforced walls provide ample space for paintings, drawings and sculpture, with many custom display cases for more precious collectibles. Storage galore, flexible floor plan on luxurious acreage make this home an incredible value.

The Gardens

The crown jewels of the luxurious gardens are the two old growth trees that flank the lawn, shade the pool and provide homes for abundant bird and animal life. One is a magnificent bay and the other a heritage oak, both over five hundred years old. Statuesque Italian Cypress trees preside over the tennis-fenced vegetable garden. Rock walls and paths abound and the property offers both manicured passages and wildness of nature. Situated upslope adjacent to the generous flat lawn, terraces and stairs lead to a wall fountain that hearkens back to ancient Italy. Protected by a perimeter deer fence, the gardens are lush with varieties of blooming trees, wisteria, and evergreens. Raised beds will provide fresh flowers, produce and herbs to welcome family and guests. Ample acreage and a private well could support a variety of vineyards and orchards.

The Location

Situated inside a private gate, upslope in one of the most desirable areas of Diamond A Ranch Estates, three parcels totaling approximately 9.58 acres provide seclusion, luxurious lifestyle and panoramic views across Sonoma Valley to Mount Diablo. With two separate addresses and access from either Grove Street or Belmont Court, the opportunity to create a family compound beckons to be considered. Seamless access from Arnold Drive affords the best of country living. The amenities of Diamond A Ranch Estates are available and charming Sonoma Plaza is approximately a 15 minute drive.

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