Old World Charm Infuses this Piedmont Home

PIEDMONT, CA - There are plenty of big houses in California, but the term mansion is reserved for something that’s a cut above. This home by a noted early 20th century architect qualifies. The fact that it’s situated on an acre of lush, landscaped property (a well on the property provides water for the landscaping and fountain) with a private tennis court only adds to its glamour.

The historic Hampton House in Piedmont was designed by architect Albert Farr in 1926 in the classic Mediterranean style. The property’s listing paints a lovely picture of the downstairs, “With distinctive and elegant architectural detail throughout the home, the glorious formal rooms are beautifully proportioned. The dramatic foyer is highlighted by a series of arched windows and a door overlooking the formal gardens; the grand living room with 12-ft ceilings, marble fireplace, layered crown moldings, and gracious windows is balanced by the sumptuous formal dining room across the foyer. The handsome, over-sized library with fireplace opens to the gardens. Lovely remodeled kitchen with adjoining family room and staff quarters adjacent.”

Up a graceful, curving staircase with a leaded, stained glass skylight lies the private quarters for the family including five bedrooms and five bathrooms. The master suite has its own marble fireplace and two separate baths. The second floor also has a large playroom and a sitting room overlooking the gardens.

If you enjoy entertaining, there’s a circular drive that leads to guest parking, four-car garaged parking, and a private parking court. There’s a separate one bedroom, one bathroom apartment over the garage.

This estate is located at 395 Hampton Rd. in Piedmont, 94611. The home is listed by Teresa Baum and Georgia Cornell of Pacific Union International.

Unfamiliar with Piedmont? The tiny city is just two square miles, surrounded on all sides by Oakland. Incorporated in 1907, one year after the great San Francisco earthquake, it was known as “The City of Millionaires” because there were more millionaires per square mile than in any other U.S. city. The estates of that era remain, including Hampton House, making this well-manicured city a desired address. The city has its own school system, with 98 percent of high school graduates continuing on to college.

-Images via Zillow