505 Fairbanks Ave, Oakland, CA 94610

HOUSE BEAUTIFUL This is how they used to make houses: large rooms, beautiful architectural details, comfort and style existing effortlessly together. The bold silhouette of this 1919 Prairie-style Craftsman is softened by lush landscaping of jasmine, rosemary, abutilon, salvia and vines of Thompson grapes. A large porch welcomes in a classic manner. The living room is large and light-filled, with a stone fireplace bracketed by bookshelves. Giant picture windows frame views of the hills. Wainscoting, crown molding and handsome oak floors bring yet more elegance. The formal dining room is big and bright, with windows overlooking the garden. The convivial, airy open floor plan brings the kitchen and dining room together, separated by a low kitchen bar. The kitchen is the heart of the home, and this one is all charm. Sleek veined quartz counters, a subway tile back splash, stainless steel appliances, maple floors and a cheerful view from oversized steel casement windows make this an especially appealing place to cook, entertain friends or hang out with the family. A powder room and guest room off the kitchen overlooks the garden. Outside, the tiered garden is thoughtfully designed with lime, lemon, grapefruit and blood orange trees; fountain grass, herbs, roses and other drought-tolerant plants fill the raised beds. A deck and studio shed, the "Little House," is a lovely locale to both entertain and to get away. Upstairs are three sizeable bedrooms, two of which overlook the garden, one has a calm sun room with tree-filled outlooks, all have nice walk-in closets. A hall bathroom has a vintage penny-tile floor and pedestal sink, and a built-in linen cabinet in the hallway is a nice period detail. The master bedroom has banks of windows capturing the light and views. A fabulous location in the vibrant Lakeshore/Grand Lake neighborhood is another highlight of this home, with every need within walking distance: the Farmer's Market, grocery and hardware stores, in addition to the Lakeshore shopping district and some of Oakland's best restaurants. This historic area is also minutes from Lake Merritt and affords easy accessibility to San Francisco by car or public transportation. Spacious and gracious, this is a classic beauty, a great place to call home.