Description
Privately positioned within walking distance to Calistoga’s vibrant downtown, this enchanting home offers an unparalleled blend of European charm and California Wine Country elegance. It’s been featured in House Beautiful and played backdrop for numerous photo shoots due to its romantic soul and authenticity of character.
Two private driveways lead to a gravel parking area adorned with a covered space and picturesque Redwood grove. An ivy-covered wall hints at the allure awaiting beyond. Through an arched entrance, a captivating mini estate with European flare unfolds. A stunning main residence and a charming guest cottage, separated by a lush grass-lined dark-bottom pool create a tranquil oasis.
The architectural style of this exquisite property is quite exceptional with European elements best described as a French Provincial home incorporated into a California Ranchette. The main residence forms an open "L" shape, complete with dormer rooms and exudes timeless elegance and historic magnetism.
The main residence spans approximately 2,614+/- square feet and has three bedrooms and two luxurious bathrooms. Stepping inside, the home's light-filled sophisticated interior features and custom design elements immediately captivate: plank floor with polished travertine marble inlay, large post beamed ceiling in white-washed finish, and steel framed windows.
The kitchen is a culinary enthusiast’s dream with ample room for preparation on Travertine marble counters and a BlueStar professional range, ideal for cooking large meals. The kitchen's long bank of folding buffet windows opens onto the exterior dining area.
The formal dining room is a grand, elongated space with high ceilings. Lined with ten-plus sets of tall 19th century solarium glass doors that open to terraces on both sides, it allows for a delightful indoor-outdoor dining experience. At the far end an antique stove and cigar balcony frame Mt. St. Helena while a whimsical chandelier overhead creates an enchanting ambiance.
The primary wing, a collection of separate rooms a few steps above the main level, includes a cozy conversation lounge, a serene bedroom, two white marble bathrooms, and a charming reading nook with its own fireplace. Ascending another short stairway leads to the dormer level, where two additional bedrooms, a bathing room, and a separate toilet room are located. These dormer spaces offer a cozy and intimate retreat, perfect for guests or family members.
The guest cottage adds an additional 565+/- square feet and offers a welcoming and private retreat for visitors. It includes a spacious bedroom, a full bathroom, a well-appointed kitchen, and a comfortable living area that opens directly to one end of the pool, providing a seamless connection to the outdoors. A 500+/- square-foot artist studio thoughtfully located away from the main and guest houses offers a serene and inspiring environment for creative endeavors or quiet contemplation.
The property itself is situated on a gently sloped hillside adorned with mature trees and meticulously curated landscaping that feature a variety of lush plantings which create a peaceful and private sanctuary around the grass-lined dark-bottom pool. The thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces offer several areas for entertaining or relaxation and repose, and not only enhance the property’s charm but provide strength and resilience against the elements.
The unique blend of architectural elements, combined with its prime location, makes this property truly stand out in the market. 971 Petrified Forest Rd. is more than just a residence; it is a sanctuary of elegance, history, and modern luxury. Guests have commented that it’s a “warm, inviting, and intimate home that hugs you. A hideaway.”
