Atherton's Bella Sera

Imagine a bygone era when early-Renaissance country villas enchanted Europes aristocracy. Where olive casks dot the sun-drenched countryside and azure blue waters invite endless hours of sheer leisure. Brilliantly designed and masterfully crafted, this breathtaking Italianate villa is such a place. Enviably situated in the heart of Atherton the San Francisco Bay Areas most prestigious address the 2.5-acre property marries a lavish main residence with equally impressive guest house and resort-worthy amenities. The result an executive retreat that is truly without equal. The meticulously crafted details commence on the front walkway where sculptural fountainheads are introduced and then scattered amidst the property in presentations often camouflaged in nature yet always as a work of art. Inside, walls of glass-smooth Venetian plaster and fine upholstery beckon the sensation of touch while hand-painted artistry, elaborate woodwork, and dazzling light fixtures enliven the sense of sight. Every vista holds an eye-catching detail, warm floors provide soothing comfort underfoot, and at every turn, lines of sight are directed to the beauty of the surrounding grounds. The home is sophisticated yet decidedly approachable and intimate with a wonderful flow from grand public rooms to more casual venues for everyday living. Equipped to cater gourmet feasts for two or two hundred, the spectacular chefs kitchen, butlers pantry, and sommelier-worthy wine cellar set the stage for effortless entertaining. Five sumptuous bedroom suites in the main residence are complemented by a two-bedroom guest house offering flexible accommodations for family members, guests, and staff. Befitting a residence such as this, the impressive grounds are a bucolic setting that envelope the home with privacy, sun-swept open space, and dappled shade from magnificent old-growth trees ready to spring forth in full bloom. Walkways meander through gardens with color and fragrance for every season culminating at a glorious pool, tennis court, and secret garden beyond painstakingly crafted walls that appear centuries old. At the heart of it all, a spacious cabana takes center stage providing an exceptional venue for outdoor gatherings. A legendary estate for generations to come. Price upon request

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Step down from the salon to the living room with towering layered oak beam and paneled ceiling and two chandeliers; Rumford fireplace with manorial scale stone mantelpiece.

Banquet-sized formal dining room with inlaid wood flooring outlined in parquetry and travertine; Venetian glass chandelier from a ceiling medallion; French doors to rear and side terraces.

Temperature-controlled wine cellar with groin and barrel-vaulted ceiling, stone walls, and tasting bar

Fabulously equipped chefs kitchen with walnut cabinetry, granite slab counters and full-height backsplashes, and travertine floor; island with radius seating counter and wine storage; Viking gas range, Miele oven, two microwaves plus warming drawer, two Miele dishwashers, compactor, two separate Sub-Zero refrigerators and freezers plus refrigerator drawers; pantry room with ice maker.

Butlers pantry and bar with glass-front cabinetry, granite counters, microwave, warming drawer, refrigerator, wine cooler, dishwasher, and ice maker

Breakfast room with built-in house systems control station adjoins . . .

Family room with box beamed hand-painted ceiling, fireplace, media cabinetry, and surround sound.

Box beamed hand-painted ceiling by Evans & Brown

Stunning library/billiards room fully customized in cherry wood, glass-front cabinets for collectibles, library shelves with ladder access, and fireplace; hand sculptured relief ceiling and walnut floors

Glorious master suite with vast sitting room, fireplace, mini bar, and two private terraces. There are two exceptional closet rooms adjoining the Master Bathroom.

The master bathroom; steam room with shower, separate vanities, open shower, whirlpool tub, and terrace access with steps to the pool terrace.

Secret garden with two ponds and connecting stream

Partially enclosed cabana with vaulted mahogany ceiling, built-in heaters, fireplace, and barbecue kitchen.

Pool with canopy jets, retractable cover, and separate recessed spa