By Tyler R. Morrissey
What do you think of when you think of California? Maybe your mind wanders to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, or the vineyards of Napa Valley. Or maybe you think of sandy beaches and a laidback lifestyle. California is a unique place to say the least. The Bear Flag Republic is known for its jovial attitude toward life and stunning residential architecture that embodies this feeling. Back here on the East Coast, we are starting to see more California-style properties as buyers are looking to retreat to their homes for an escape from the everyday stresses of life. Today we take a look at some properties in Westchester County that take California-style living to a whole new level.
10 Wagon Wheel Road – Mamaroneck, New York
For more information: Robert Gamba, 914.479.7908, robert.gamba@juliabfee.com
If you are looking for a home to kick back and relax in, then you should consider this fabulous Colonial that offers traditional curb appeal with a modern interior living aesthetic. Residing on a picturesque lot, this property features oversized rooms with large windows, providing a bright and airy living environment. The first floor offers an elegant entry foyer with a powder room, and a living and family room that are both equipped with a fireplace.
Larchmont agent Robert Gamba said he received interest in this property as soon as it came on the market and added that buyers are looking for a place that makes them feel “happy,” an atmosphere that California-style homes perpetuate.
“The personality of this home’s seller really comes through,” Gamba said. “They are into surfing and the beach, and the way the house is laid out, it embodies that California lifestyle. There is a multilayer deck with a hammock and a beautiful sitting area that flows from the sunroom. It’s really perfect for that carefree and laidback West Coast lifestyle.”
20 Gate House Lane – Mamaroneck, New York
For more information: Eileen Kelly, 914.329.6763, eileen.kelly@juliabfee.com
Also located in Mamaroneck is this new construction home that is the ultimate oasis from the hustle and bustle of New York City, but still just 30 minutes away from Midtown. The one of a kind custom built home features simple lines, a clean design and an open floor plan. Flooded with light and wrapped in tall windows, the warm woods and soothing hues and finishes of 20 Gate House Lane create a feeling of organic warmth and personality. Other highlights include a large yard with space for a pool or basketball court, and an unfinished 2,100 square foot basement, which can be potentially used as a sixth bedroom, gym, game room and more.
163 Old Colony Road – Hartsdale, New York
For more information: Lee McTeigue, 914.479.7561, lee.mcteigue@juliabfee.com
In the town of Hartsdale resides a modern home unlike anything you have seen before. The distinctive rectilinear design combines with the airiness of relaxed interiors and breathtaking living spaces. Minimal lines accentuate oversized picture windows that pour in light and allow for an easy transition between indoor and outdoor living, a key element of a California-style home.
Larchmont agent Lee McTeigue also pointed out the wall of glass doors that flow out to the patio, truly taking advantage of the indoor to outdoor living concept.
“You are seeing the popularity of West Coast style because of the diversity of Westchester County,” McTeigue said. “This style is really common in places like Europe and Canada, and when people move here from those places, they bring that taste and preference with them. What’s interesting about this property is the owner really wanted that modern feel and sourced many of the finishes from other countries. For example the front door is from Australia, the kitchen cabinets were imported from Canada and there’s tile from other nations as well.”
580 Weaver Street – Larchmont, New York
For more information: Cate Jarrett, 914.310.6103, cate.jarrett@juliabfee.com, Joan Capaldi, 914.806.9965, joan.capaldi@juliabfee.com
Every day feels like a vacation at a luxury resort at this sun-drenched home that’s just 30 minutes from Manhattan. Set on .39 acres, this four-bedroom home features a heated gunite pool and stunning views of Bonnie Briar Country Club. The expansive open concept living and dining rooms feature hardwood floors, a stone fireplace and upscale skylights. French doors off the living room open to a slate patio where you can bask in the beautifully landscaped yard. The new designer kitchen has marble countertops and an abundance of custom cabinets for storage needs. At the end of a long day, retreat to the first floor master bedroom, which includes two walk-in closets and a spa-like master bath with a rainfall-shower and a deep soaking tub.
63 Havemeyer Road – Irvington, New York
For more information: Fran O’Toole, 914.523.3743, fran.otoole@juliabfee.com
The final stop of our California-style home roundup takes us to Irvington, New York, for a look at this rare mid-century modern home. Much like California-style homes, a hallmark of mid-century modern design is large windows that let natural light flood the home. Clean lines, walls of glass and natural elements seamlessly blend this home’s newly refreshed interior with the natural surrounding beauty. Thoughtfully designed and generous in space, the flexible layout of this five-bedroom property offers privacy, open flow and even the possibility for a home office with a separate entrance. Enjoy entertaining in the spacious main living area and privacy at the end of the day in the bedroom wing of the home, which also includes a gym, den and library with a soaring two story fireplace.
