On the market for the first time in more than 100 years, the secluded Ericcson-Bray house at 2708 Virginia Street in Berkeley began as a small brown shingle cottage in 1911. Built by designer-builder Carl Ericsson, it was expanded in 1921 and 1929 by architect John Hudson Thomas.
The architecture features Craftsman characteristics including a wide and prominent front door, Redwood board and batten walls, box beam ceilings, high baseboards, a brick fireplace, and a tiled hearth.
Charming details abound the interior, from decoratively notched beams to Redwood alcoves framed by arches.
Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the home with light and create a connection to the beautiful vegetation and lovely Bay views.
The house has multiple common areas on the main floor, connected yet separate. Box beam ceilings continue from the living and dining rooms into the kitchen.
A large fireplace hearth with clinker bricks and a solid Redwood mantle serves as the centerpiece of the living room.
The conservatory connects to a dining room surrounded by windows and Bay views. An elegant library with Romeo & Juliet French balcony doors faces the street, ideal for a home office or family room.
The spacious kitchen is highlighted by beveled glass windows looking out to the greenery facing East. A bedroom and half bath complete the main level.
Upstairs, three spacious bedrooms and one bathroom feature charming details, including a carved wood, high gabled room with a built-in desk, twin bed, and ladder leading to an attic storage space, bringing to mind an English turn of the century cottage.
The lower basement level is finished with a bedroom, bathroom, and laundry, and connects to the garden and the garage as well as several undeveloped storage spaces.
This warm, historic home is listed at $1,450,000 by Norah and Daniella Brower.
