5355 Manila Ave, Oakland, CA 94618

Once in awhile, something truly unique comes along. Welcome to 5355 Manila Avenue. This new construction home is just doors off of College Avenue, an architectural rarity in a neighborhood of 100 year-old homes. Its sleek modern design offers a truly unique opportunity for the discerning buyer. The history of the property is a story of transformation. Local lore tells us that the original cottage was relocated to this site in the early 1900s, and actually placed on the lot sideways! In 2016, a pair of local women developers, one a designer/realtor and the other an architect, purchased the property with the idea of expanding the living quarters and modernizing the layout in this cherished Oakland neighborhood. The low-slung roof and large front set-back of the existing cottage presented too many design constraints in the end, and ultimately got torn down to make way for a completely new project. In the new design, the double gabled roofline is a nod to the surrounding Craftsman architecture. More modern touches like the recessed windows and the entry wall of glazed brick tile convey a modern point of view. A celebration of simplicity, light, and lofty ceilings, the experience of 5355 Manila is a refreshing alternative to the older homes of the East Bay. The feminine influence shows up in a softer, more soulful approach to finishes, and a focus on modern day functionality. Natural materials such as wide plank white oak flooring, full grain orchard walnut cabinetry, and an oversized natural fiber pendant light, celebrate organic textures and earthiness. The floor plan optimizes for everyday usage patterns - a convenient interior access garage, laundry near the bedrooms, and a family room upstairs for dual-zone entertaining - all novelties in Rockridge. The pristine move-in condition & modern amenities of 5355 Manila allow you to enjoy the Rockridge lifestyle, rather than renovating your existing home.   Accessories & Finishes -Heath tile backsplash -Cle tile glazed brick at entry -Nest Smart Thermostats & -Nest Smoke/CO detectors -In-ceiling Pyle speakers -Handrail with custom down-lighting -Security system with 2 keypads -Toto dual flush toilets -European Oak hardwood wide plank floors w/ natural matte finish -Custom-designed old orchard walnut cabinetry -Floating walnut shelves -Cedar-clad garage door -Integral color stucco exterior -Durable quartz countertops with "velvet" finish for a more natural look and handfeel   Structure & Landscape: -All new construction -Level-in entrance -Attached / insulated garage with storage -9'8" ceilings first level, soaring vaulted ceilings second level -8' tall doors in many locations -12 skylights and hidden light well in dining room -Sierra Pacific wooden windows w/ exterior aluminum cladding (never needs painting) -Gas fire pit -Raised beds for an edible garden -Irrigation system   Layout: -Open plan layout with 80 sqft wall of glass sliding doors -Private rear-facing master suite with split bathroom -Interior access garage with connecting mudroom -Upper level family room for dual-zone entertaining -Upper level laundry with Samsung self-cleaning washer and steam dryer -Level-out access to backyard   Systems: -200 amp solar-ready electrical panel -Panel will support EV charger in garage -Tankless water heater -Super-insulated shell with Qii (Quality insulation inspection) cert. -HERS (Home Energy Rating System) & Green Point Rated -95% efficient gas heating   Kitchen & Appliances: -36" Blue Star Range with 6 burners -30-bottle wine fridge & 36" DCS fully-integrated fridge -Bosch dishwasher with custom integral panel -10'6" island with seating for four -5-year appliance warranty from the distributor