162 Throckmorton Ave

Just one and a half blocks from the heart of downtown Mill Valley, the iconic "Dwell House" represents a rare convergence of architectural significance, design pedigree, and effortless livability. It lives like a private resort, yet sits moments from a vibrant downtown -- an exceptionally uncommon pairing. Discovered in the mid-1990s as a modest cottage, the home became the creative foundation for Dwell. It was later reimagined through a thoughtful collaboration between the founder, Lara Deam, and architect Christopher C. Deam. They were guided by a vision of modern design rooted in timelessness, simplicity, and a deep connection to the way one lives. Admirers have likened the home to both a Frank Lloyd Wright inspired composition and a Japanese pagoda an architectural presence that is at once grounded, serene, and quietly striking. Just steps from the town's central square, the home offers a rare sense of walkable, almost urban convenience morning coffee, groceries, the bookstore, and Old Mill School all moments away yet unfolds as a private, hidden retreat. Tucked into a lush, courtyard-like garden, the property is thoughtfully sited to create a sense of seclusion, with two hidden courtyards and a kitchen deck offering multiple escapes from the rhythm of town. Clerestory windows wrap the home, diffusing it with natural light, while most of the living spaces orient toward a sunny, landscaped garden and lap pool creating an airy, open atmosphere that feels both expansive and serene. The design is both striking and deeply warm floors of rich, black-stained Brazilian cherry, blackened cedar, Carrara marble, and clean, trimless lines, bring a balance to the refined palette. A dramatic 13-foot pivot door opens to a garden where the landscape becomes an extension of the interior, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor flow that defines both everyday living and effortless entertaining. At the heart of the home, a beautifully appointed kitchen anchors daily life, centered around a sculptural 14-foot reclaimed California walnut island and equipped with integrated appliances by Sub-Zero, Miele, Gaggenau, and Dacor. The adjacent living spaces, warmed by a wood-burning fireplace, open fluidly to the outdoors equally suited to quiet evenings and larger gatherings. Spanning approximately 3,950 square feet, the residence offers three bedrooms, a den, an office, and a series of flexible living spaces designed for both retreat and connection. A dedicated sauna introduces a wellness element, while outside, a resort-like setting unfolds with a 13.5 x 35-foot pool, exquisite gardens, an al fresco dining area with built-in BBQ, a fire pit, and a separate 440-square-foot custom European white oak studio with its own kitchenette ideal for guests, work, or creative pursuits. Despite its central location in the heart of town, the home offers the rare convenience of two off-street parking spaces tucked within a private courtyard, complete with an EV charger. Debuting on the market for the first time. Offered mostly furnished with curated, design-forward pieces sourced from global makers, the home reflects a life immersed in architecture, art, and design culture. More than a residence, it is a place of inspiration where thoughtful design meets warmth and livability, and where one can experience a truly rare Mill Valley lifestyle that feels both deeply connected and quietly removed from the everyday. Lease Term: Offered mostly furnished for a 6-12-month term commencing July 1, 2026. Tenant is responsible for utilities. Design & Interior Features: - Thoughtfully reimagined modern residence with a focus on timeless, livable design - Signature 13' wide pivot door creating a dramatic architectural entry - Clerestory windows and expansive glass walls bringing in natural light throughout - Trimless detailing and clean lines for a refined, gallery-like aesthetic - Striking interplay of materials including stained black cedar, warm wood flooring, and Carrara marble surfaces - Cohesive black, white, and natural wood palette with curated moments of color - Wood-burning fireplace anchoring the main living space Kitchen & Appliances: - Design-forward, eat-in kitchen positioned as the heart of the home - Oversized 14-foot reclaimed California walnut island (one-of-a-kind statement piece) - Premium, integrated appliances including: * Sub-Zero refrigerator * Miele built-in espresso system * Gaggenau in-counter steamer * Dacor warming drawer - Designer lighting including Tom Dixon Beat pendants - Furnishings and accents influenced by global design, including pieces from B&B Italia, Herman Miller, Flexform Indoor / Outdoor Living: - Seamless connection between interior and exterior spaces the outdoors as a "fourth wall" - Multiple private decks and courtyard spaces for entertaining and retreat - An al fresco dining area with a built-in grill - 13.5'x35' pool with a resort-like setting - Outdoor fire pit and beautifully maintained garden environment - Exceptional grounds by internationally-recognized Ground Studio Landscape Architecture, designed to feel intimate, private, and immersive Additional Spaces: - Approx. 3,500 sq ft main residence - 3 ensuite bedrooms + den + office + multiple flexible living areas - Dedicated sauna (wellness-focused, inspired by Scandinavian heritage) - Separate 440 sq ft custom European white-oak studio/office with a full bath & kitchenette ideal for guest use, creative work, or pool house Lifestyle & Location: - Just 1.5 blocks to downtown Mill Valley cafes, shops, library, and Old Mill School - Rare combination of walkability + privacy - Two courtyard parking spaces with EV charging - A true design legacy property with provenance tied to "Dwell" *Please reach out to Julia Bernardini of Compass with any questions or to schedule a private viewing.