If you are in the market for a great family home, this is one I want you to RUN to see, like today, if possible. I’m totally serious. It is a Forest Hills classic built in 2007 by (we think) Oscar Ponder, created of red brick and stone, with plenty of square footage — 5216 to be exact. This home is beautiful, soothing and jam-packs in four bedrooms, a first floor master, study, wine room, five fireplaces, five full and one half baths, whopping sized formals, and a four car garage with an auto court. Oh did I mention the gorgeous back yard pool and spa right off of not just one, but TWO charming covered patios and outdoor living areas, one with a pizza oven-sized fireplace and full kitchen?
This is Forest Hills, land of the lush and luscious lawns. This lot, like most Forest Hills properties, measures two-thirds of an acre. The area is becoming a popular spot for professionals seeking larger lots or homes to refurbish in Lakewood. White Rock Lake is within walking distance, a block away on the other side of Garland Road.
1409 San Raphael, listed with wonder woman Barbara Heady of Coldwell Banker Previews, harbors a most interesting outdoor life. In fact, I can say with certainty, someone could even live in this house in the fabulous exterior rooms and not set foot in the house — all your needs would be taken care of. There is the terrace to the pool, the hot tub, and separate fire pit below all set in the glorious, huge backyard. If you must, a full bath is accessible from the patio featuring a stunning Danby marble vanity.
Enter the home through elegant iron gates, and then the magic begins. Beautiful double dappled-glass doors open to towering ceilings, custom hand-caved millwork, a curved front foyer iron staircase, interior archways and uniquely finished woods including those stunning antique beams. The floors are hand-scraped oak. Check out the blue-gray 19th century cabinet doors imported from France with original zinc hardware intact in the living room. The kitchen is a cook’s dream with thick Mont Clair Danby white marble counters and a plethora of high end appliances. Both the Butler’s pantry and the kitchen feature custom made antique mirror backsplash crafted by a local artisan, Malloy Mirror. (The backsplash took three months to create.) The master is downstairs and has a spa bath attached with separate double shower and tub, and oceans of vanities.
“Buyers who have seen this home call it a resort,” says Barbara Heady. “It is like an oasis in the city, almost a second home, really.”
Asking is an unbelievable $1,600,000. Like I said, slip on your Nikes and RUN to the Hills!
