Rare, stunning, split-level Eichler in Portola Valley asks $2.3 million

Designed by architects A. Quincy Jones and Frederick E. Emmons, a partnership that conceived designs for thousands of homes under the noted developer’s name, this midcentury gem down in Portola Valley isn’t your average Eichler. Perish the thought.

Photos courtesy of Modern Homes Realty

Eichler enthusiasts, you’ll want to take note: This 1951 home at 311 La Mesa Drive comes with three bedrooms, two a half baths, and approximately 1,770 square feet. Which is just dandy. But the real treat here is that it’s a split-level home with a large balcony and unique vintage touches.

To put it lightly, this is a house dense with midcentury aesthetics. Not for the faint of modernistic heart. It's an interesting space, especially the entryway.

Also, as broker Monique Lombardelli points out, "the interesting thing about this construction, from the roofline and the frame of the house, even the staircase, is that it's all comprised of 2x8 lumber that was bolted together," making it one of the strongest Eichler models in town.

The exposed copper tubing, which snakes up the wall on the staircase, is simply stunning.

The soaring floor-to-ceiling windows, reaching both levels, bring in maximum light. A good thing since this Eichler is rich with mahogany paneled walls that, at times, seem to make for a darker, tighter space.

This unabashed example of could be too much for those who prefer a more contemporary or turn-of-the-century touch. But overall, a downright gorgeous home.

Asking is $2,399,000.

• 311 La Mesa Drive [Modern Homes Realty]