54 Tamalpais Rd, Berkeley, CA 94708

Property Description

Nestled along Cordornices Creek in Berkeley, the Turner-Matthews home is a testament to a bygone era. Formerly owned by Hollywood writer Robert Shaw, it hosted luminaries like D.H. Lawrence and Oppenheimer’s students. The house, designed by artist Shirley Turner and her brother Steven Matthews, reflects the Arts and Crafts aesthetic. Unique features include a curved living room mirroring the topography of the land, a 15-ft tall stone fireplace of local stone, and redwood-adorned structures evoking a magical treehouse. The property comprises the main house and a 1919 cottage, blending historic charm with modern comfort. Updates seamlessly integrate with original architecture, preserving the home's essence. Surrounded by nature, it enjoys a symphony of birdsong and the melodies of the Cordornices Creek. A mature garden designed by Berkeley landscape architect David Bingham adds to the serenity. Positioned high on a hill, the Turner-Matthews home stands as a visual spectacle that transcends traditional architecture, inviting residents to immerse themselves in its rich history and natural beauty.