Distinctive Moderne in Old Palo Alto, architecturally elegant in the Art Deco tradition.

450 N. California Avenue, Palo Alto

 
 

Honored by its induction into the Art Deco Society of California in 1995, this rare example of Art Moderne architecture sits back from the street in Old Palo Alto. With its interior renovated in 1990, the home showcases the signature details of its architectural heritage: curved and fluted walls, chevron patterns on the front and garage doors, porthole windows, and brilliant light from expanses of glass block. The updated kitchen is masterfully appointed complete with high-end appliances, including a commercial-style gas range, and plenty of space for casual meals as well as an intimate adjoining room for more formal dining. The home has 4 bedrooms, including one on the main level plus an upstairs primary suite with office area, private balcony, and luxurious bath. Outside, the extremely private rear yard has ample space for play and entertaining. Acclaimed architecture and a superb location less than a half mile walk from the convenience of Caltrain and a myriad of shops and restaurants. A wonderful place to call home.

Offered at $5,498,000

 

Facts + Figures

  • Art Moderne style; architect/builder William F. Klay, as documented by Palo Alto Stanford Heritage

  • Located in the premier Old Palo Alto neighborhood

  • Two levels with 4 bedrooms and 3 baths

  • Distinctive architecture with curved and fluted front wall, chevron-patterned garage doors and front door, corners wrapped with steel casement windows, porthole window, and kitchen wall of glass block

  • Front door with speakeasy window opens to the foyer with hardwood floors that continue throughout; sweeping staircase framed by iron rails and fluted newel posts

  • Spacious and bright formal living room has an Art Moderne fireplace with fluted corners and outline; recessed lights dot the ceiling; corner front windows are complemented by tall side-by-side windows overlooking the rear grounds

  • Formal dining room with contemporary serpentine ceiling light and built-in recessed cabinetry with serving counter and mirrored backsplash

  • Updated kitchen features all-maple cabinetry with feature wall in chevron pattern plus entire wall of glass block; granite slab counters, including breakfast area with second sink and mini Sub-Zero refrigerator

  • Appliances include: commercial-style Wolf range with double griddle, four burners, and warming shelf; Bosch dishwasher; Sub-Zero refrigerator with two freezer drawers

  • Intimate family room just off the kitchen

  • Bedroom has corner windows, two closets, recessed lights, and adjacent tiled bath with cast iron tub, separate shower, and tiled wainscot

  • Upstairs primary suite has an office area lined with shelves, two banks of glass block windows, fluted curved walls, private balcony, and customized walk-in closet; the en suite bath has an onyx-topped dual-sink vanity and separate room with pedestal sink, all-tile tub/shower combination, and 2 signature porthole windows

  • Two upstairs bedrooms, each with front windows and ample closet space, are served by an all-white tiled bath with wainscot and fully tiled tub/shower combination

  • Other features: laundry room with Samsung washer and LG dryer; 2-car garage

  • Large private rear yard with perimeter foliage, partially covered stone patio, and lemon tree

  • Top-rated Palo Alto schools: Walter Hays Elementary; Greene Middle; Palo Alto High (buyer to confirm)

  • Approximately 2,800 total square feet plus garage of 400 square feet on an 8,440-square-foot