Each week I endeavor to find unique properties worthy of reader attention, and this week’s feature couldn’t be more unique — even bordering on idiosyncratic. Casa Escondida (“hidden house” in Spanish) is my moniker for this house, which is hiding in a prime Westside location off Crestline Road within walking distance of River Crest Country Club.
This captivatingly cute cabin at 4925 Lafayette Avenue, built in 1922, has been meticulously restored by the present owner and is eligible for landmark status.
Bamboo, an element of the serene Japanese landscaping, almost completely screens the property from neighbors and gives the illusion of an isolated urban getaway, immune from the cares of the rest of the world.
Although likely not everyone’s idea of an ideal home, no one can fail to appreciate this attentive restoration, exposing original long-leaf pine walls and oak floors. In spite of the rustic appearance, updated electrical and plumbing, foam insulation, and tankless water heater make this picturesque cabin tight and comfortably livable.
The cozy atmosphere is completed by the wood-burning fireplace in the center of the living room flanked by psychedelic stained glass windows. At a modest 1,244 square feet, this two-bedroom one-bath house is easily 2,000 square feet or more below this Westside enclave’s median.
In spite of its unassuming proportions, this super-chic shack has a separate living room and dining room. I won’t speculate as to the identity of the homeowner here, but the sui generis decor and exceptional quality and quantity of the rugs will give some readers a clue.
The kitchen maintains the rustic ambiance prevailing throughout the cabin with vintage-look appliances. Notice the copper range hood tapped into the exposed brick chase. The area includes a narrow niche, a perfect cushy alcove for morning coffee.
Although overall square footage may be on the meager side, rooms including both bedrooms are ample with great light from windows on two sides. The bath has a vintage slipper tub and a pedestal sink.
Completing the placid atmosphere of this tranquil retreat is a lovely Japanese garden with a calming rock garden and water feature. The back porch eave is supported by a stone wall of local rock, still being harvested from construction sites today, known as Rivercrest Rock.
Martha Williams of Williams Trew Real Estate has priced 4925 Lafayette Avenue at $579,000.
