525 E California

Secluded and private, behind a river rock wall and mature hedges, this 1907 Craftsman located adjacent to historic Madison Heights offers timeless character and high-end updates in a desirable location. The home is quietly introduced by an arbor entry and a handsome gate on Oakland Avenue, which opens to reveal a secret garden. Follow the meandering stone path through a velvety lawn to the generous front porch and stunning solid wood front door. Inside, quality craftsmanship and custom details abound in this restored home, from rich amber-hued hardwood floors to the grand-scale chiseled granite arroyo stone fireplace, a decorative centerpiece befitting the spacious living room. Natural light is a constant here, with beautiful wood casement windows bringing in sunlight and lush green garden views. Expanded and restored by architect William S Long, in 2007, the floor plan flows seamlessly for convenience and ease: the living room leads into a formal dining room, which opens to both a covered deck via french doors, and to a superlative kitchen. Chefs will revel in the 48' Thermador range, warming drawer, double wall ovens and SubZero refrigerator, while design aficionados will enjoy the combination of classic, early 20th-style millwork and fixtures with elegant finishes like natural marble countertops and floors. A convenient mudroom and powder bath complete the public spaces on the ground level. Private spaces are equally well-appointed: the primary suite with walk-in-closet features an en-suite bath with steam shower and separate soaking tub. Upstairs, two additional sizable bedrooms share another updated full bath with a soaking tub and separate shower. The large laundry and bonus storage/linen storage room, plus built-in shelving and desk nook provide value and utility. Lastly, at 388 SF, the garage is large enough for two cars, but the space is finished beautifully and ideal for a den, home office or gym space. Centrally located between Madison Heights, the Playhouse District and South Lake Ave, this home is surrounded by beloved cultural institutions (the Pacific Asia Museum, Caltech and the Huntington, to name a few), with wonderful dining, shopping and architectural sight-seeing just moments from the front door.