Nestled within a canopy of old-growth redwoods (two of which are over five feet thick), this spectacular custom home boasts panoramic views of the Pacific from its perch on the Mendocino coastline. A secluded haven that receives calm, fog-free summer days within the “Banana Belt’s” sunny embrace, the hilltop hideaway spans three legal parcels of land totaling approximately 10 acres. The property is affectionately coined “Sea Piper” after the characteristic warbling of the local seabird, whose evening song is a welcome reminder to pour a glass of wine and enjoy a happy hour sunset over the Pacific.

Custom-designed by a Japanese architect, this sumptuous Zen retreat coalesces expert craftsmanship and custom millwork with a harmonious blend of local old-growth redwood and Japanese antique wood accents. The antique entrance door is framed by a custom “torii gate” of perfectly cut thick redwood beams. Across the threshold, guests are greeted by a voluminous great room with two-story ceiling, and floor-to-ceiling glass designed in a ”Kimono Girl” motif that frames whitewater views of the rocks below. The great room’s custom helix stairway lends scale and drama, bringing the eye to antique Japanese minka cross-beams, a 20’ high ceiling beam and row of clerestory windows. Imparting warmth with whole-slab horizontal old-growth redwood wainscoting, the house leans heavily on its Japanese influences, while remaining true to its Northern California roots.

Striking ammonite stone counters punctuate an open-concept kitchen, along with Japanese keyaki (zelkova) wood panelling. Revered for centuries in Japan for its durability and remarkable grain, the striking hardwood has been liberally deployed across cabinets, doors, and yes, even the fridge. Setting the stage for casual meals, a red jarrah (Australian hardwood) slab has been expertly cut into an L-shaped sushi bar with natural edge.

Those sleeping upstairs in the primary suite enjoy ocean views through an enormous circular window. Replete with a quaint library (featuring old-growth “sinker” redwood walls) and cozy reading niche, the primary bedroom affords a dreamy escape, with private balcony and spa-like bath that melds hinoki cedar, bamboo tile, and stone shower. The downstairs suite is poised to pamper guests, outfitted with an authentic antique Japanese door, Japanese-style straw-infused plaster walls, and glass sliders that lead to a private engawa deck for quiet contemplation of the evening glow. The seaside sanctuary also includes a detached cottage with full bath and deck, perfect for visiting in-laws.

This one-of-a-kind property was landscaped by previous owners into convenient terraces (ideal for installing a Japanese garden or swimming pool), decades before the Coastal Commission outlawed the practice. It is exclusively covered with native Mendocino coast plants; the local hummingbirds and bees can’t resist the sweet scent of the flowering azaleas that crowd the picturesque wetlands habitat on the lower lot. Frequented by a host of native species, especially the beloved pair of ospreys who return every year, this special property is a veritable oasis for local wildlife. The large pipe hardwood deck features an outdoor redwood trunk shower, and a jacuzzi for whale watching. An architectural tour de force with the quiet tranquility of a Kyoto temple, it is a unique and special property, the likes of which are virtually never seen on the market.

Listed by: Seán Gaynor-Rousseau, Broker-Associate
DRE 01317414
Luxe Places International Realty
DRE 1522223
Utopia By The Sea Vacation Rentals
DRE 01458647
39140 South Highway 1,
Gualala, CA  95445
[email protected]
707-321-4063 (cell)
707-230-6042 (rentals)
www.UtopiaByTheSea.com