779 Balra Dr

Welcome! This unique home is featured in "NorCalMod", a book on Mid-Century Modern architecture! This steel frame home has walls of glass and is built on top of two steel I-Beams that rest ABOVE a creek ... yes, the creek runs under the home! The home was designed by Beverly David Thorne, the last living architect to have participated in Arts & Architecture's famous Case Study Houses (1945-1966), a project to introduce modern architecture to the public. He designed houses, most on steep hillsides and built out of steel. He is most famous for the "Brubeck House" that was featured on the Ed Sullivan show. With the exception of updated flooring, appliances and the downstairs addition, this house is in its original condition. The steel construction design of the home gives it incredible strength and durability. This also allows the support of glass walls which provide an outstanding view of majestic trees and a garden setting from the front as well as inspiring views of the Bay, San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge and Mount Tampalias from the back. When it rains, you can also witness a breath taking creek that flows magnificently under the house. The architecture of this home is what stands out. It is considered a "floating" home design and it feels like you are living mid air. Deer come frequently to enjoy the land and add to the serene and inspiring aura of this property. There is a meandering walkway to the front of the home which parallels the creek which provides a zen like peaceful feeling when entering the property. ACCOMODATIONS This house is a 2014 square foot, 4+ bedroom, 2 bathroom single family home. In addition, there is 1200 square feet of decking to relax and enjoy the views! The house can come furnished or unfurnished. The master bedroom can come with a king bed with a high-end organic European Sleepworks mattress and a private bathroom. The other bedrooms can come partially furnished upon request. There is an additional room downstairs connected by a spiral staircase. It feels very private and boasts amazing creek and forest views. A second bath is on the main level and comes with a shower and tub. The main room is an open-concept living room/dining room/kitchen area. It boasts incredible views and has plenty of room for great conversations, working, or just relaxing. Other furnishings can include a large Z Gallerie soft leather sectional, authentic Starbucks velvet lounge chairs, and a dining table which seats up to 8 (possibly more if requested ahead of time). The kitchen includes a Bosch dishwasher to make clean-up easier. THE NEIGHBORHOOD Located near the Berkeley hills, the house is in a great location. Minutes from the freeway, UC Berkeley, Tilden Park, and San Francisco. We are close to shopping, restaurants, BART, coffee shops, movie theaters ... everything you may need. PARKING/TRANSPORTATION There is room for 4 cars in the carport driveway as well as plenty of free parking on the road in front of the home. The El Cerrito Plaza BART (metro) is within 5 minutes from the home. PLEASE NOTE: The creek flows heavily during the rain as shown in the pictures. When it is not raining, the creek flows very lightly.