Master architect’s transcendent Mill Valley debut
December 12, 2019 | Compass California Real Estate Blog
The dramatic vision of internationally noted San Francisco-based architect Stanley Saitowitz has long been seen across the Bay Area and beyond. Now, his only Mill Valley project has emerged on a south-facing knoll near the heart of downtown at 185 Summit Avenue.
The incomparable estate is defined by a multi-terraced living roof with solar panels, wrapped in stunning views of downtown San Francisco, the Bay Bridge and Alcatraz Island. The architect describes the structure as “a series of terraces which both inhabit and recreate the original slope of the hill. It is essentially a frame of the views on two levels, living above, sleeping below, each expanding to landscaped outdoor terraces.”
Textured architectural board form concrete, natural woods, imported European stone slabs, steel and glass meld with the highest quality fixtures, details, technology and craftsmanship to create unique spaces of light and tranquility unlike those found in any other Mill Valley home. Inside, the main level instantly transmits the Bay-focused indoor-outdoor living experience.
An expansive terrace with high-end outdoor kitchen and fire pit links to the dramatic great room. White oak-floored living, dining and kitchen spaces are lightly defined by vast walls of glass that showcase unobstructed vistas of the downtown skyline, iconic water views and verdant courtyard. Across this green space is a garage and a separate studio with ingenious built-ins, a modern mini kitchen and an attractive full bath.
All bedrooms are on the lower level and soundproofed. Ultra-sleek bathrooms feature imported European stone slabs and enormous Fleetwood sliding doors to the outside environment. The master suite is highlighted by an indulgent soaking tub and linear drain shower.
All amenities and infrastructure reflect the project’s exacting standards, from the Sub-Zero and Fisher Paykel kitchen to the extensive, lush landscaping with photocell lighting and wi-fi controlled irrigation. Cutting-edge smart home features include underfloor radiant heating, a Sonance speaker system, top-flight security and a storm-water drain system. All interior doors are solid and floor-to-ceiling.
Saitowitz has described his designs as “the remaking of the crust of the earth to capture space on the horizon.“ His new Mill Valley masterpiece, listed by Ethan Moeller and Joshua Deitch at $6,950,000, realizes that vision to perfection.