5809 Ross St, Oakland, CA 94618

Welcome to this timeless home, originally advertised as “A Modest Mansion” built in 1930 by Ernest W. Urch and designed by the prominent architect W. W. Dixon. These two men are responsible for some of the finest examples of Storybook homes in the Bay Area. Featured in Heritage House Tours and the “Storybook Style” book, this residence is nestled on a great street that features a complete block of other Storybook homes designed and built by Dixon and Urch. This home features 3+ bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, formal living and dining rooms, a breakfast nook, laundry room, and an incredible upper level “Attic Style” with room for more beds, play areas, a guest room, family room, or ?? The floor plan of this home represents the thoughtfulness of the architect. The quality of the original intact finishes and workmanship are the hallmarks of a master builder. All the bedrooms are bright and roomy. The sunken living room has a vaulted ceiling with exposed beams that showcase a dramatic fireplace and built-in niches for your books and show pieces. A door leads to a private outside sitting area. The huge metal casement windows provide wonderful morning and evening light and because of the unique angle of the living room, you are not looking at the street. The sunny south facing kitchen includes a beautiful Wedgewood stove — a sought after kitchen feature, even today. There is period cabinetry, a pantry area, and a bright breakfast nook for casual dining. The formal dining room is spacious and affords easy entertaining when coupled with the formal living room. Great main floor plan for entertaining. The original bathroom has been immaculately maintained and has retained its original charm. The upper floor includes a wonderful surprise – a huge bonus space that is perfect for so many uses, a 4th bedroom, a family room, guest room, or maybe a new master suite. With only a little imagination you will find a dozen fresh ideas for the space. Don’t miss the hidden extra spaces and imagine these bonus rooms with high vaulted ceilings flooded with sunshine from new skylights. Of course there is a quaint yard, including a spa, lawn, mature gardens, and sitting areas. The 2 car detached garage can actually store cars or could be a perfect workshop. This home has been lovingly maintained by the same family since the 1950’s. Recent upgrades include a 40 year roof, new hi-efficiency furnace, electrical panel, and seismic upgrades. The house is located in the desirable Chabot Elementary School district and the school is just up the street. So your new home is ready for you and the next 50+ years of enjoyment. With a house like this, in the perfect location, why would you ever leave? Neighborhood Description Rockridge stretches along College Avenue from Broadway up to the Berkeley border at Ashby (where you will find us here at Lawton Associates, by the way). The neighborhood stretches west to spoon with Temescal and eastward up the hills for magnificent views of the bay. Whether you reside in a Craftsman on Cavour or a chalet on Chabot, you are never far from the action on College Avenue. And by action on College Avenue, we mean some of the hottest shops and restaurants in the Bay Area. Has the foodie press stopped raving about Wood Tavern? No they have not, but they are also busy touting A Cote, Oliveto, and of course Zachary’s, the best pizza you will ever eat. And, if you aren’t getting your freshly made pasta, organic produce, butchered meat, and piping hot pastries from Market Hall…well, you should be. And when you are ready to relax and watch the world go by, you can hang with cool cats at Cole Coffee, possibly the best roast this side of the bay. Rockridge came into its own in the 1970s when the BART station opened and the Caldecott Tunnel provided better access to Walnut Creek and beyond. Many neighborhood institutions from the 70s and before are still beloved destinations, such as Chimes Pharmacy.