We started Lookiloos to indulge the inner lookiloo in all of us, to showcase beautiful homes and gardens with original photos and stories, to give decorating tips and remodeling ideas and create a community to share our stories of home. Peek inside with us.
This week I ended up in Ingleside Terraces, a neighborhood in San Francisco. I love discovering new neighborhoods, especially old ones. Ingleside was originally built as a horse race track, complete with stables, bandstand and the all-important clubhouse. The track opened in 1885 and continued racing for 20 years. Home development of the track began in 1912, but with the onset of World War I progress slowed and most of the homes were built in the 20’s.
Urbano Drive is the one mile oval where the horses raced for the prize. My stop was a new listing on Desoto Lane. It was a wonderful Mediterranean Bungalow. The charm and character have been preserved, but with all the modern amenities added. The kitchen has great light and the floor is a design of the owner’s daughter– a wonderful pattern of tile and wood. Eye-pleasing archways announce the transition from room to room. Contrary to what many may think, you can find a nice size yard in San Francisco. History buffs will enjoy the patio made with reclaimed firebricks, complete with the CARNEGIE stamp. Sections of wrought iron fence from a convent are used in the front yard to create a privacy screen. The color palette creates a warmth to chase away any fog.
We line up for home tours. We brake for open houses. We peek through fences. We fantasize. We want to get in! We started Lookiloos to indulge the inner lookiloo in all of us, to showcase beautiful homes and gardens with original photos and stories, to give decorating tips and remodeling ideas and create a community to share our stories of home. Peek inside with us.
-- Desiree, Julia and Sheila - Silicon Valley
I had brunch with a friend a while back at the California Cafe in Los Gatos. Had the best crab melt ever! I’ve re-created them for my family. And everyone—well, almost everyone loves them. I only changed the bread California Cafe’s version uses brioche. I use sweet french bread. I’ve even used this recipe as [...]
Ever since my husband took the sledgehammer to the shower eight years ago, the rest of the master bathroom has, like an unhappy housewife, “let herself go.” It’s time for a makeover. We need your ideas!
We did it finally – we rearranged our tiny 2 bedroom house + office into a 3 bedroom home. Yes, that means the kids have their own rooms and I lost the extra office. Well actually, my husband lost his office and I gained a roomie in my garage office. Grrr… It was time. My [...]
I was packing my bags when I realized, I didn’t have enough $$$ in my check book. This Saratoga dream is perfect for California entertaining. Kitchen, dining and family rooms are open to each other. The french doors on either side open to the front or back of the home. Love those draperies in the [...]
This Los Altos home was quite simply perfect. I’m a sucker for crown molding and substantial baseboards. I love the way they frame a room. The living and dining room draperies reminded me of elegant ballgowns. But this home felt warm and relaxed not stuffy. The kitchen is spectacular and opens to a great family [...]
As I wound my way up to the top of Bohlman Road, I have to admit my stomach was filled with butterflies. No the drive wasn’t sending my tummy into aerobatics, but the anticipation of what this home was going to look like. I mean 10 acres in the Saratoga Hills. What was this gonna [...]
Ok, I admit it—I’m a city girl. I love the outdoors. It’s just after a day hiking all I want is a really hot shower and a comfy bed when it’s all said and done. Well, this city girl was ready to trade her heels in for cowboy boots this past week. I do own [...]
Can you believe the views??? Nestled at the top of Loma Prieta this home has the most wonderful views. Usually, up in the Los Gatos hills you find yourself in deep shade most of the day—not here. You will find plenty of sunshine and to sweeten the deal lots of flat usable land! You can [...]