The Full Story
The Journey Begins at Home
Perched on the side of a mountain and surrounded by dozens of California Live Oak trees, our three-story home is a true testament to our love of nature and adventure. Built on stilts to harmonize with the landscape, the house was designed to respect the natural beauty of the area. One massive California Live Oak with three large 60+ cm trunks actually grows through the home, bringing the outdoors directly inside and creating a seamless connection between the house and its environment.
A Canvas of Art and Memories
Inside, our home is a living gallery of our travels, filled with art and memories from around the world. Most of the house is tiled with thick, ancient Jerusalem stone, reflecting our deep love for Israel and adding a timeless, textured element to the design. Combining global artifacts and natural elements creates an inspiring, tranquil space that reminds us of the places we’ve visited while grounding us in the present.
Nature at Every Turn
Large windows wrap around the house, offering unobstructed views of the San Francisco Bay and the East Bay Hills from nearly every room. These panoramic views invite the natural world into our home, ensuring that we are always connected to the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Recently, we expanded the house with a large outdoor deck featuring two lookout areas, allowing us to fully enjoy the stunning scenery.
A Sanctuary Rooted in Nature and Design
Designed to bring the world home while embracing the local environment, our house is both a reflection of our travels and a tribute to the beauty of the San Francisco Bay Area. The towering California Live Oaks, especially the trees growing through the house, remind us daily of the balance between human life and nature. Here, surrounded by the world's art and the beauty of nature, we find a perfect sanctuary—an ever-evolving space that reflects our journeys and our love for the earth.
"I haven't been everywhere, but it's on my list."
— Susan Sontag
