Portal to a Mayhew Original

A real estate listing oftentimes offers a portal to another world, and is particularly inviting when it leads to a real beauty like the custom-designed Raphel House by architect Clarence Mayhew.

The Bay Area architect, known for his inspired modernist designs, created the mid-century classic at Oakland's 31 Sequoyah View Court, now on the market for $1,795,000.

The home features "superb interplay with nature and interiors," to quote the listing, incorporating floor-to-ceiling glass walls and clerestory windows "to blend natural light with privacy and non-traditional layouts."

"The Mayhew house was custom built for the Raphel family in 1958," says listing agent Doug Sager of The Grubb Co., a realtor who is passionate about architecture and history.

"With four kids, the parents wanted a home that fit their family perfectly…so there's a slider they could close off, which gave the parents a private wing so they could be playing cards in the evening. The architect perfectly maximized the layout."

Located on the southernmost edge of the Oakland Hills, the single-story residence sits atop a hill. Overlooking the fairway is the centerpiece of the neighborhood, the Sequoyah Country Club. "There's a zoo nearby, wonderful trails, rolling hills, many with tremendous bay views," he adds.

When asked what the name 'Sequoyah' refers to, Sager explained that the area is named after a Cherokee chief who created the first alphabet that could be translated out to the modern world, and that 'Sequoyah' is a Native American spelling.

Built on a level lot at the end of a cul-de-sac, the home features five bedrooms and three full baths, for a total of 2,396 square feet. Updated with a retro touch, both the home and landscaping retain a good deal of originality.