1196 Keith Ave

Originally built in 1936 and once home to the founder of Peet's Coffee, this extraordinary Berkeley Hills residence has been completely reimagined through a meticulous down-to-the-studs design-build renovation by Levitch Associates. No expense was spared blending timeless architectural character with exceptional craftsmanship, modern functionality, and artistic detail — including a newly installed slab foundation as part of the extensive reconstruction. Nestled among the redwoods on a quiet cul-de-sac and set on a rare combined 16,295 sq ft — which includes the adjacent 6,000 sq ft parcel (APN 63-2988-49) — the property feels like a private forest sanctuary while remaining minutes from the very best of Berkeley. With only three steps to the entry, the home offers rare ease of access. A dramatic living room frames breathtaking Golden Gate Bridge and Bay views. The formal dining room flows into an extraordinary chef's kitchen with custom cabinetry, generous pantry, Wolf range, Sub-Zero refrigerator, and artisan details throughout. Custom artistic elements by local craftspeople include original stained glass, handcrafted iron stair railings, tile mosaic work, and a custom kitchen hood. The flexible floor plan offers five bedrooms, multiple office spaces, and expansive lower-level bonus areas ideal for a media room, gym, or guest quarters — with ADU potential (buyer to verify). Oversized windows throughout frame redwood and Bay views while flooding the home with natural light. Outdoor spaces were designed for both relaxation and play, with landscaped grounds, turf areas, and direct access to hidden neighborhood trails

Current Status

Active - Coming Soon

Original Price

$2,895,000

List Price

$2,895,000

On Market Date

May 19, 2026

Property Type

Detached

D/N/S

Berkeley Hills

Zip Code

94708

MLS ID

41135296

APN

632988581

Year Built

1936

Stories in Building

3

Possession

Seller Rent Back

Data Source

MAXEBRDI

Origin MLS System

Bridge AOR

Bed

5

Bath

3.5 (3/1)

Parking

0

Parking Spaces

SQ FT

4,575

SQ FT Source

Measured

Lot SQ FT

16,295.0

Lot Acres

0.24 Acres

Pool Info

None

Kitchen

Dishwasher, Gas Range, Refrigerator, Dryer, Eat-in Kitchen, Disposal, Gas Range/Cooktop, Kitchen Island, Pantry, Updated Kitchen

Cooling

None

Disclosures

Other - Call/See Agent

Entry Level

Exterior Details

Garden/Play

Flooring

Concrete, Hardwood, Tile, Other

Foundation

Fire Place

Living Room

Heating

Zoned

Laundry

Dryer, Laundry Room

Upper Level

2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths

Main Level

3 Bedrooms, 1.5 Baths

Possession

Seller Rent Back

Architectural Style

Custom

Construction Status

Existing

Additional Miscellaneous Features

Garden/Play

Location

Premium Lot, Landscaped

Roof

Composition Shingles

Water and Sewer

Public

Fee

Unavailable

MLS and other Information regarding properties for sale as shown in Theo have been obtained from various sources such as sellers, public records, agents and other third parties. This information may relate to the condition of the property, permitted or unpermitted uses, zoning, square footage, lot size/acreage or other matters affecting value or desirability. Unless otherwise indicated in writing, neither brokers, agents nor Theo have verified, or will verify, such information. If any such information is important to buyer in determining whether to buy, the price to pay or intended use of the property, buyer is urged to conduct their own investigation with qualified professionals, satisfy themselves with respect to that information, and to rely solely on the results of that investigation.

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