Grand Avenue Duplex Oasis

In the heart of Grand Lake’s convenience and preserved character, this 1920’s duplex presents an oasis of timeless sophistication and sunshine. Both floor-throughs open to an enclosed garden with stretches of level lawn and flowering perennials, areas for gathering, and a privacy-enhancing treed backdrop. Each comprises expansive formal living and dining rooms infused with natural light from arrays of cottage windows, two bedrooms, one bathroom, and classic-aesthetic kitchen, the upper reflecting exquisite renovation throughout, the lower pristine preservation.

This vivacious setting offers close proximity to unique and useful shopping, dining, entertainment, recreation, and transportation. Attached garages enable dwellers to stow their cars and enjoy walkability and bikeability to a world of resources including the iconic Grand Lake Theater, Lake Merritt, Farmer’s Market, commuter carpool, boutiques and cafes throughout Grand, Lakeshore and Piedmont Avenues.

Hallmarks of Prairie-style architecture distinguish the façade: geometric-patterned multi-pane windows, broad eaves overhanging a flat roof, and decorative geometric details.

Time-honored grace characterizes the interior. Distinctive vintage elements include wood-burning fireplaces flanked by library display shelves in living rooms. With windows on three sides, the space is as sparkling as it is spacious, lending itself to gracious entertaining. In the dining rooms, original built-in hutches with glass-front cabinetry topped by bar or buffet ledge form another alluring architectural focal point with function.

Just-renovated, the upper showcases restored honey-hued hardwood flooring and reimagined kitchen and bathroom with period sensibility. New kitchen flooring dovetails with original hardwoods; Carrera marble counters and subway-tile backsplashes impart classic character. All-new appliances include stainless Fisher & Paykel refrigerator and KitchenAid gas range and dishwasher. Off the kitchen, a new laundry facility features Electrolux stacking washer and dryer. Also transformed, the bathroom incorporates all-new components including a claw-foot tub, marble-topped vanity, and large-scale hexagonal floor tile.

Nearly identical layouts on both levels place two bedrooms off a linen-closet equipped hallway, with back bedrooms overlooking the garden. Each unit opens to the park-like outdoor space laced with stepping-stone walking paths, well suited for al fresco dining and evenings around the brick fireplace.