Those Dazzling Twin Gables!

Chalet‐style homes are undeniably appealing. Quintessentially California, their distinctive designs—commonly represented with A‐frame or steep‐gable rooflines—are forever linked to the coziness of a snow‐country mountain getaway cabin, or the serenity of a lakeside retreat.

This week's California mid‐century modern 'for sale' find evokes that vacation feeling with not one, but two, steep gables linked together, and set atop a four‐acre knoll surrounded by nature.

We wonder: would MCM aficionados drool over our latest sighting—a rare and unusual home with an indoor aquatic atrium nestled between those twin super‐gables? We think so.

Located in Watsonville, an agricultural hub south of Santa Cruz and north of Monterey, the area offers hiking, wine tasting, relaxing at the beach, and even apple picking.

Privacy, peace, and panoramic views across Monterey Bay are just a few of the joys of this mid‐century chalet at 911 Fallowfield Lane. Represented by Sandra Lilly of Christie's International Real Estate, the property lists at $2.222 mil.

"It's absolutely gorgeous when you walk in," Lilly says, "and I love the open concept."

Noting that one gabled structure of the home was built initially, then the second one came later, Lily adds, "There's a flat ceiling with skylights between the two [gables] that houses the swim spa; the flat part that hangs over the spa is an atrium."

Since 1978, the property has had only two sets of owners. "My client's parents were the second owners, and they built the second A‐frame [sic]."

Lilly's client, Denise Muir, explains that her parents purchased the home in 1987. "Mrs. Muir was looking for a house for their son, but fell in love with the double A‐frame design, and decided to buy the house for herself and her husband," Denise says.

The home's design reminded the Muirs of a cabin on a lake in Canada where the family had spent their summers. Interestingly, Mrs. Muir was already familiar with Eichler houses.

"Dr. Muir's cousin owned an Eichler home," Denise explains. "The Muirs' son has a memory of visiting the Eichler when he was four years old. He played on the floors and was amazed that they were warm. He never forgot it, and has put radiant heat in the floors of his own homes."

Living in the Watsonville home until well into their 90s, says Denise, "Mrs. Muir was always eager to show visitors through the house. Nothing made the Muirs happier than having family and friends visit and enjoy their beautiful and unique home."